Private collection, Selangor; acquired directly from the artist
Description
Khalil Ibrahim is widely recognised for his evocative portrayals of life along Malaysia’s East Coast, particularly through scenes of figures gathered along the shoreline. In this work, Khalil Ibrahim focuses on the fisherfolk at work, while observing the changing qualities of light throughout the day. Through this sensitivity to light and atmosphere, he transforms everyday coastal life into a reflection on the environment. As the figures move across the expanse of the beach, their elongated shadows are deftly rendered, creating a subtle interplay between light and form. It's all about teamwork, and this collaborative effort, hard work and diligence, will be paid off.
As one of Malaysia's most versatile artists, Khalil Ibrahim's ability to execute various subject matters from landscape to figurative and abstraction in different media propelled him to excel at an early age. Khalil Ibrahim won a Pahang State scholarship to study at the St. Martins School of Art in London where he graduated with a National Diploma of Design in 1963 and followed up with a postgraduate study. On his return, he was relieved of his contract and he had been a full time artist since September 1966. He was given a double solo of his London works and Malaysian batik paintings at the Samat Art Gallery, Kuala Lumpur in 1970. He was the first Malaysian to have a solo in Indonesia in 1970. He co-founded the Malaysian Watercolour Society. His major solo shows included Khalil Ibrahim: The Art Journey (2015), and Khalil Ibrahim: A Continued Dialogue at Galeri Petronas, Kuala Lumpur in 2004. He has also been featured in major national exhibitions abroad. Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers (HBAA) paid a tribute to Khalil Ibrahim at the HBAA booth in Art Expo Malaysia 2018.