Ismail Mat Hussin was renowned for portraying scenes from daily life and had a keen eye for observing the surrounding environment. This arrangement features trishaw riders ferrying women and children around town, working diligently to earn a living. At the forefront of the composition, attention is drawn to the charming Kelantanese ladies dressed in ornate batik sarongs that reflect their tradition. Self-taught, Ismail Mat Hussin worked as a graphic designer cum illustrator at Syarikat Percetakan Dian in Kota Baru from 1979-1991, and had been painting virtually full time since 1968. He was a member of Peseni (Persatuan Senilukis Kelantan) and the Angkatan Pelukis SeMalaysia. He also painted in watercolours, but his batiks fetch higher prices. He was qualified in music with a Grade V certificate in violin from the Royal School of Music in London, and worked part-time at Radio-Televisyen Malaysia Kota Baru. His highest auction record was RM 140,000, achieved in Henry Butcher Art Auction few years ago, with a batik masterpiece of size 96 x 186cm.