Hafiz translates the beauty of the sea into captivating layers of resin art. — Bernama
THE rhythmic hush of waves and endless sweep of blue once offered a quiet refuge from emotional strain.
Today, for one young artist, that same seascape has become a wellspring of inspiration, transformed into intricate resin artworks that distil the essence of the ocean.
For Mohamed Hafiz Mohamed Zulzaini, 29, what began as a personal escape has evolved into a creative pursuit drawing growing interest from art enthusiasts.
Using liquid epoxy resin, he crafts pieces that mimic the illusion of rolling waves with striking realism, each one a frozen moment of the sea in motion.
Sharing his work on social media under the name Resin Art Ocean, Hafiz said his connection to the sea runs deep.
Long before art entered the picture, the shoreline was his sanctuary, especially during periods marked by anxiety and depression, he told Bernama.
“I would spend a lot of time by the beach, listening to the waves. It felt like therapy.”
A turning point came when he stumbled upon resin artwork by an Australian artist online.
It sparked not only admiration, but a desire to create.
“I didn’t just want to replicate what I saw, I wanted to create something that came from my own emotions and passion.”
By day, Hafiz works as a colour maker for printing inks; his art remains a steadily growing side venture.
Entirely self‑taught, he refined his skills through YouTube tutorials after earlier attempts in other art forms failed to take root.
His creative journey began in the Arts stream at school. But like many, it faded once he entered the workforce.
He attempted to return to the arts, and persisted until he found his groove in resin.
Starting with keychains, bookmarks and phone cases, Hafiz gradually moved on to larger framed wall pieces that now define his signature style.
Each artwork is built layer by layer: a base colour, followed by the careful formation of waves, then final detailing to create a vivid, almost lifelike effect.
To heighten realism, he incorporates silica sand and small stones to mimic the texture of a shoreline.
Sometimes he adds delicate elements, a stingray gliding beneath the surface, a tiny boat drifting across the tide, a sea turtle suspended in motion.
“The waves are the most challenging part,” he admitted, noting that achieving the right movement and depth demanded patience and precision.
Since venturing into resin art, Hafiz has received more than 200 orders. His pieces range from RM200 to RM3,000, depending on size and design.
“The most common response I get is that people feel calm, like they’re healing – as if they’re by the seaside,” he said.
“That’s what makes this meaningful for me.”
Looking ahead, Hafiz hopes to open his own gallery and workshop, not only to expand his craft but also to introduce resin art to a wider audience.
