Illustrator Soefara Jafney gives female icons a superhero makeover

'I was inspired by her (Cik Siti Wan Kembang) story – a skilled fighter who led an army of women warriors into battle on horseback, yet also possessed a nurturing side,' says Soefara. Photo: The Star/M. Irsyad

Freelance illustrator and designer Soefara Jafney’s Cik Siti Wan Kembang, from her digital portrait series, is a striking mash-up of local folklore and the slick style of US comic books.

By fusing the enchanting mystique of Malay tales with bold, eye-popping designs, the 45-year-old artist has given this Kelantanese female warrior a fresh, modern twist – proving that tradition can be both timeless and totally cool.