Behind the vibrant colours and striking batik motifs featured at Seni Mekar: Art in Bloom exhibition lies the inspiring story of a young woman who has transformed physical limitations into a source of artistic strength.
Ainaa Farhanah Amali, 31, has proven that living with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is no barrier to creating artworks rich in local identity and distinctive aesthetic value.
SMA is a genetic neuromuscular disorder that causes muscles to become weak and waste away.
Her piece titled “Malaysia I Know 3”, featuring a red hibiscus set against turquoise batik motifs on fabric, took about a week to complete and highlights Malaysian cultural elements through her unique artistic interpretation.
Ainaa finds the painting process physically challenging, but embraces the condition as part of her artistic identity.
“Controlling the brush can be difficult because my hands sometimes shake.
“But art doesn’t always have to be about perfect lines, so I have learned to make that as part of my work,” she told Bernama at the exhibition held at Ken Gallery in Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur.
Passionate about art since the age of two, the graphic design graduate from First City University College in Selangor said many of her artworks were inspired by personal experiences and the sense of calm she feels by the seaside.
She also shared the challenges of creating batik art, which requires the use of hot wax and delicate precision.
“Some parts turned out well, while others didn’t go exactly as planned,” she said of pieces she crafted for the exhibition.
“Handling hot wax also requires extra care.
“Thankfully, the wax dries quickly, which helps a little. I also have to work slowly to avoid injuring myself.”
Ainaa limits herself to about two hours of work each day because her hands become numb if she paints for too long.
Seni Mekar: Art in Bloom also features the work of 13-year-old Dhia Mohd Fadzli, who lives with autism and expresses her imagination through abstract, galaxy- inspired patterns.
Her mother Mariena Malek, 54, said Dhia’s passion for art became apparent after she introduced her to art classes about a year ago.
“I tried exposing Dhia to many different activities because her interests tend to change quickly.
“But once she started painting, she showed extraordinary enthusiasm,” Mariena said.
Seni Mekar: Art in Bloom brings together 18 artists – aged six to 31 – with disabilities, including individuals with Down syndrome.
It is organised by Frienden-Art in collaboration with Yayasan Hasanah’s Arts for All Seasons (ArtsFAS) initiative that provides a platform for persons with disabilities and individuals facing health challenges to showcase their artistic talents.
The exhibition, which ends today, is from 10am to 5pm. Admission is free.
