Collage of torn magazine and newspaper paper with some painted sections, creating an abstract image.

1995–2003s | Early Newspaper Collages

Collages made from newspapers and magazines, painted with acrylic. Inspired by Jeri Azhari’s simplicity. Some have since entered the collection of the National Art Gallery Malaysia.

 

My practice began with simple collage — newspapers and magazines cut, layered, and painted with acrylic. Inspired by the late Malaysian pop artist Jeri Azhari, I embraced his belief that art does not require wealth, only time and process. These early works reflect a fascination with mass media imagery, reframed through a mosaic-like structure that questioned how stories are told and consumed. Though modest in material, the collages became foundational, setting the tone for later explorations with discarded matter. Several works from this period have since entered the collection of the National Art Gallery Malaysia, anchoring what would become a long journey of transforming the overlooked into art.

I swear..., Collage and acrylic on canvas, 150 x 110 cm, 12006, Collection: Private

Sip, collage and acrylic on canvas, 2006 Collection: National Art Gallery Malaysia

Home, collage and acrylic on curtain, 110 x 110 cm 2003

Sale, collage on curtain, 60 x 80cm, 2002

 

The image features a collage with cut-out images of two figures wearing sunglasses and a yellow face mask, standing in front of a cityscape. The cityscape includes tall buildings, and there are flags with designs resembling the Malaysian flag. The background appears to be a digital or artistic representation, with various symbols, text, and patterns integrated into the collage.
A large mosaic of a person's face made from various small images and magazine clippings on a wall, with more magazines and pictures scattered on the floor.