Kelarai Bunga Jelutong
by Atan a/l Datok, Sugi a/l Bah Singin, Bah Singin a/l Datok
In this abstract minimalist artwork, the artist captures the serene and timeless essence of Sarawak’s pristine rainforest, a landscape where life thrives in quiet, intricate harmony. Through the lens of abstraction, the piece celebrates the simplicity of nature amid its inherent complexity, using a carefully curated, limited color palette and the deliberate interplay of negative space to convey a profound sense of calm, openness, and breathing room. Every element on the canvas is intentional—fluid brushstrokes ripple like wind through the canopy, streams flowing over rocks, or the gentle sway of leaves—symbolizing the interconnectedness and harmony of the rainforest’s many layers.
Beyond its visual composition, the work transcends literal representation, inviting viewers to experience an emotional connection to the natural world. The subtle gestures of line, shape, and tone evoke the rhythms of the rainforest: the soft murmur of waterfalls, the quiet rustle of foliage, the delicate balance between flora and fauna. It is a meditation on space, light, and presence, creating a contemplative pause from the sensory overload of modern life.
The piece functions as a gateway to tranquility, offering a momentary refuge from the rush of daily existence and inviting viewers to rediscover solace, wonder, and awe in nature’s intricate design. Its intention is to awaken reverence for the environment, highlighting the fragile beauty of ecosystems that sustain life and encouraging conscious stewardship of these precious habitats. Through the lens of simplicity and minimalism, the artwork transports the observer to the heart of Sarawak’s rainforest, where towering trees, cascading waterfalls, diverse wildlife, and lush flora coexist in perfect equilibrium—a quiet but powerful reminder to reflect, appreciate, and actively protect these vital components of our planet’s enduring beauty.
About the Community
The Semai are one of the largest Orang Asli groups in Peninsular Malaysia, primarily residing in the central and northern parts of the Peninsular highlands, including Perak and Pahang. Traditionally forest dwellers, they are renowned for their deep knowledge of the rainforest, its plants, rivers, and wildlife, which has sustained their communities for generations.
Semai society is characterized by strong communal values, non-violent conflict resolution, and egalitarian decision-making. They maintain close-knit villages where cooperation and mutual support are central to daily life. Agriculture, hunting, gathering, and traditional craft-making remain integral to their cultural practices, alongside rich oral traditions, music, and ritual celebrations that reflect a deep connection to nature and ancestral heritage.
Despite modern pressures, the Semai continue to preserve their language, traditions, and ecological knowledge, contributing to Malaysia’s rich Indigenous heritage while navigating contemporary society.
About the Artists
This group of artists hails from Kampung Kenderong, Ulu Jelai, Lipis, Pahang, and represents the rich cultural heritage of the Semai community. At the heart of the craft is Atan a/l Datok, a skilled weaver whose work reflects generations of traditional knowledge, transforming locally sourced natural materials into intricate and functional creations that carry the aesthetic and spiritual values of the Semai people.
Supporting the creative process are the harvesters Sugi a/l Bah Singin and Bah Singin a/l Datok, who gather the natural fibers and materials essential to weaving. Their intimate knowledge of the forest and sustainable harvesting practices ensures that the materials are ethically sourced while preserving the surrounding environment.
Together, this collaborative team embodies the Semai ethos of community, harmony with nature, and intergenerational knowledge transfer. Their artistry is not only a testament to skill and creativity but also a living celebration of Semai cultural identity, sustaining traditions and sharing them with wider audiences.