Syaiful A Rachman

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About the artwork

(A) Syaiful A Rachman features prominent figures in his paintings, as well as everyday characters. His fascination with these popular figures is driven by conviction that they are the icons for various thing such as persona, popularity and even power. Each character portrayed on Syaiful’s canvas is made up of countless miniature, faceless human figures. When looked at closely, Syaiful’s work may seem to a an adaptation of pointillism, altering it slightly with the use of human figures in place of dots. However, upon observing the piece of work from a distance, one would realize the wholesomeness of the painting, forming the image of an individual. There is however a deep analogy behind Syaiful’s style – the crowd displayed is not merely random however responsible for the formation of the iconic figure known to the world. Each brushstroke, colour and tone used makes a difference on the end product of the painting. Similarly, he hopes to remind his viewers that the power and position attained by these well-known people is through the support of countless other people and it is their power that they have reached this position. It is also a realization of the distribution of power within our society and the impact each fragment of this society has on each individual.

About the artist

There are many who regard mainstream culture and the mass media with disdain, believing that the adoption of preferred attitudes and ideas is a symptom of a shallow, frivolous milieu. Yet there are others who are not so quick to pass judgement on the widespread disposition towards popular culture, instead taking it as a window through which we may gain insight into the very core of humanity's strengths and weaknesses. Syaiful A. Rachman is one such person. His paintings reveal his interest in the development of what some might flippantly term "mass culture," as this "mass culture" we often carelessly refer to is in fact more profound and complex than we might think. Prominent figures such as Elvis Presley, Andy Warhol and Marilyn Monroe recur in Syaiful's paintings. His particular fascination with these celebrities is derived from the conviction that they are the 'nodes' of various aspects - persona, popularity and even power, [all of] which are manifested in every human subject." These easily recognisable household names perhaps signify such traits in a more accentuated manner than the ordinary individual, hence explaining Syaiful's choice in making them the subject matter of his work. However, lest one be led to believe otherwise, Syaiful's focus is not only famous figures. Much of his art showcases his appreciation for the passion and ebullience of everyday characters as well.