KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 2 — Artist and art educator Ahmad Syakir Hashim returns with his latest installation work titled ‘Wings Before Words’, presented through the exhibition ‘Hanya Satu’ at the National Art Gallery since September 23.
Ahmad Syakir, whose works often explore themes of identity, spiritual awareness and human connection, this time opens a space for contemplation on the tension between doubt and faith, logic and belief.
“Through the Hanya Satu exhibition, this artwork features 40 sheets of Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) material, shaped and arranged in repetition upon a sturdy steel structure—a process that demanded high precision and patience since its creation began in May,” the National Art Gallery said in a statement today.
“Each layer of material symbolises the human journey in seeking harmony between the rational and the spiritual,” it added.
The relationship between material and idea has been meticulously crafted by Ahmad Syakir, where each physical element serves not only as an aesthetic component but also as a reflection of faith — one that is built through discipline and self-awareness.
“Each combination of the soft texture of EVA and the strength of steel creates a visual balance that reflects the steadfastness of faith amid human doubt and fragility,” it said.
Born in Taiping, Perak, the 40-year-old artist holds a Master of Fine Art and Technology from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) and currently serves as a full-time lecturer at INTI Centre of Art & Design (ICAD), Subang Jaya.
In addition to his artistic practice, Ahmad Syakir is also active in writing and curatorial work, producing various exhibition catalogues and art critiques, including contributions to Seni Kini, published by the National Art Gallery.
The public is invited to experience Wings Before Words, which runs free of charge until December 23 at the National Art Gallery. For more information, visit the gallery’s official social media pages or its website at www.artgallery.gov.my. — Bernama
