7 - 27 JANUARY 2006

Introduction | About 'Kalakotabharu' | Curator’s Note | Artist's Biography | Artworks

CURATOR'S NOTE

I am truly honoured to be able to share and exhibit Mohd Noor’s work at galleriiizu. His ability to see a final composition in his mind is simply amazing. There is totally no room for error and his skill is a result from his extensive research through the years. The craftsmanship in each piece is superb. What goes behind each art work is an extremely high level of crafting skill, drawing skill, painting skill and not to mention, the patience, dedication and passion behind it all.

I am sure that everyone is able to see and relate to Mohd Noor’s depiction of Kota Bharu as the series documenting the real soul of Kelantan. I say this because, as a fellow Kelantanese, it brought me back to my childhood. Some of the designs were similar to the quilt patchwork that was done by my late grandmother! The art even reminded me of familiar smells and my childhood surroundings. It definitely evoked various emotions on multiple levels. Hence, I am sure that whoever whom experienced and live life in Kota Bharu can also feel the spirit of ‘Colours of Kota Bharu’ as we all grew up with the elements and relics that are documented in the series.

To me, this is a work from a true master. One who is able to piece together a contemporary work of art that is grounded in traditional values. And to do it in a unique collage of fused medium that manages to bring nostalgia and insights into the yesteryears of Kota Bharu. The series also showcase Mohd Noor’s great sense of colour and palette. Take a closer look and you will see how the pieces have been built painstakingly… layer by layer. Take a deeper imaginations and you’ll smell and hear the sounds of Kota Bharu. The ‘Colours of Kota Bharu’ series is an awe-inspiring example of what makes a great artist.

Izuldin Hani