Izat Arif – Gentle Reminders

Richard Koh Fine Art (RKFA-KL) is pleased to announce Malaysian artist, Izat Arif’s (b.1986) first solo exhibition with the gallery. Gentle Reminders is scheduled to run from 5 until 28 November at Richard Koh Fine Art, No. 34-1, Jalan Telawi 2, Bangsar Baru, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The artist will present 10 new works from his compelling warning signs series.

Gentle Reminders is a unique exhibition experience in which viewers encounter art that seemingly have become ‘aware’ of itself and the ecosystem that it resides in. Reflexive in nature, the works contemplate the social requirements of an artist career in Kuala Lumpur (and globally) vis-à-vis Izat’s penchant for identifying irony in contemporary life. Irony is central for the artist. It is utilized as a coping mechanism to reconcile hard-hitting contradictions within the ecosystem, otherwise reinforcing the tension between opposing values.

Superficially, the works are considered an alternate replica of common signage, executed in a super flat finish using automotive paint techniques. Though regarded as a multidisciplinary artist, Izat hones in on this particular process and material exclusively for this series as for him, serves the subjects of his intended expression. The works are arduously produced from scratch with the intention of avoiding the ready-made quality of artworks that use everyday objects (i.e. abandoned wood, scraps of metal, etc).

At its core, the works come together as a reminder for the artist of his privileged position and to spur his journey through the vast and ever so overwhelming world of contemporary art. In a benevolent gesture, Izat leaves behind these warning signs for new ‘road users’ of incoming obstructions. Gentle Reminders is essentially an impassioned plea to heed the warnings.