Flora and Fauna Elements in Artworks Inspired by Malay Proverbs

Abstract

The use of Malay proverbs has long been a medium for conveying wisdom, values, and life lessons in Malay culture. In the field of visual arts, proverbs are often adapted into artworks as symbolic representations that reflect cultural identity and philosophy. This study aims to identify the elements of flora and fauna in artworks inspired by Malay proverbs, categorize artists who incorporate these elements into proverb-based artworks, and analyse their meanings and values. The focus is on two selected printmaking works namely “Katak Hendak Jadi Lembu” by Juhari Said and “Tak Tumbuh Tak Melata” by A. Rahman Mohamed. The methodology employed is a qualitative visual analysis guided by Terry Barrett’s art criticism approach, examining aspects of form, technique, composition, and symbolism. The findings reveal that flora and fauna motifs not only serve as visual decorations but also function as cultural metaphors that represent human life, nature, and social values embedded in Malay society. These results highlight the role of proverbs as a source of inspiration in contemporary art practices while maintaining their cultural significance. In conclusion, this study suggests that future research may further explore the integration of traditional wisdom into modern artistic expressions, thus enriching the understanding of Malay visual culture in a global context.