Yusof Ghani’s Tari Series were first exhibited in 1989, in an exhibition at Galeri Citra, and is one of the artist’s most popular series to date. The artwork consists of human figures depicted in several dance postures and features a strong presentation of gestural movement and figure ground relationship. Yusof Ghani’s virtuoso use of chiaroscuro gives the image a three-dimensional form, highlighting the movement of figures surging forward. The cultural practice of dance is associated with social interactions and can be seen as a mirror reflecting issues concerning humanity through movement.
Yusof Ghani’s highest auction record was for his Siri Tari (Zakwan, 1987) sold for a premium of RM403,200, in the Henry Butcher Art Auction December 2021. Yusof Ghani is one rare Malay artist who bypassed the Mara Institute of Technology (ITM) training mill. He was working in art-related jobs for 10 years before he won a scholarship to study at the George Mason University in Virgina (BFA, 1981, when he was aged 31) and the Catholic University in Washington DC (MFA, 1983), both in the United States. On his return, he lectured at ITM. He is also known for his organising the Shah Alam Biennale at his Tapak Gallery in 2016, and made his London debut with his Segerak VI at the Asia House in April 2017. Curate Henry Butcher with partners Galeri Prima and Pinkguy Gallery organised Segerak VIII: Utopia, the final edition of Segerak series, in August 2019. His other series are Protest, Tari, Topeng, Wayang, Hijau, Biring, Wajah, Ombak and Kuda.