






1 ) Where are you from and how does that affect your work?
I am Haji Abdul Malek Bin Haji Metarsat, an artist born in 1956 in Brunei Darussalam. From a young age, my passion for painting ignited during my primary school years. Fueled by this love for art, I embarked on a journey to further my artistic skills and knowledge.
In 1982, I seized the opportunity to pursue my Diploma in Fine Art at the esteemed Croydon College of Art and Design in the United Kingdom. This immersive experience allowed me to delve deep into the intricacies of art, honing my technical abilities and expanding my artistic vision.
Driven by my unwavering dedication, I continued my pursuit of excellence and, in 1993, obtained my BA in Fine Art from the prestigious Kent Institute of Art and Design. This academic achievement provided me with a comprehensive understanding of art theory, history, and contemporary practices, nurturing my growth as an artist.
Throughout my artistic journey, I have ventured far and wide, discovering new horizons and gaining invaluable experiences. My travels took me to renowned galleries around the world, where I had the privilege of witnessing the original masterpieces of celebrated artists. These encounters with exceptional works of art have left an indelible mark on my creative spirit, continuously inspiring and influencing my own artistic expression.
In addition to my explorations, I actively engage with the global art community. Over the years, I have actively participated in and been honored with invitations from various esteemed art organizations, both in my home country of Brunei Darussalam and beyond. These collaborations have offered me opportunities to showcase my artwork, exchange ideas with fellow artists, and immerse myself in diverse cultural perspectives. From the art organizations of the ASEAN countries, to Japan and Bangladesh, I have had the privilege of connecting with fellow artists and enthusiasts, further broadening my artistic horizons.
2) Who are your biggest artistic influence?
Since my initial involvement in art exhibitions during the 1970s in Brunei Darussalam, I had the privilege of acquainting myself with esteemed local artists like Pengiran Dato Asmalee and Haji Salleh Ibrahim. These encounters with established artists sparked my artistic aspirations and motivated me to further explore the realm of art.
As my artistic journey progressed, I actively participated in various art exhibitions organized by ASEAN countries. Through these enriching experiences, I had the opportunity to connect with renowned artists who left an indelible impact on my artistic development. Among the notable figures I encountered were Ibrahim Hussein, Latif Mohiddin, Dato Syed Jamal, Affendi, Sri Hadi, and numerous others. The interactions and exchanges with these talented individuals played a pivotal role in shaping my artistic perspective and expanding my creative boundaries.
Additionally, my visits to distinguished art galleries have been a profound source of inspiration for me. Witnessing the original masterpieces created by renowned artists such as Tapiez, Picasso, Monet, Salvador Dali, Van Gogh, and many more left me inspired. The sheer brilliance and artistic prowess displayed in these works motivated me to strive for greatness in my own artistic endeavors. The experiences gleaned from these gallery visits continue to fuel my passion and influence my artistic expression.
Overall, my early encounters with local artists, coupled with my active participation in regional art exhibitions and visits to renowned art galleries, have had a transformative effect on my artistic journey. They have enriched my understanding of the art world, broadened my artistic horizons, and fueled my dedication to creating meaningful and impactful artwork.
3) What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
I doodle and paint what I like, when I like and where I like with nostalgic memories.
4) When is your favourite time of day to create?
The creative process for me knows no bounds and can strike at any moment throughout the day. Whether it's the intriguing juxtaposition of natural and human-induced disasters or the captivating beauty of nature itself, these contrasting themes often serve as a wellspring of inspiration for my artwork. Pavements, footpaths, ponds, and rivers all become potential subjects for my paintings as well. The intricate details and patterns that manifest on these canvases of everyday life provide me with endless possibilities to explore and capture in my art.
To stay informed and connected to the pulse of current news and events, I immerse myself in various sources of information. Watching news broadcasts, documentary programs on television, and reading magazines and newspapers help me stay up to date with the latest happenings. This thirst for knowledge and understanding of the world around me informs my artistic process and adds depth to the narratives within my work.
In essence, my artistic process is deeply intertwined with my experiences, observations, and engagement with the world. It is through this symbiotic relationship that I endeavor to create art that both inspires and initiates conversations about the pressing issues we face and the captivating beauty that surrounds us.
5) If you could change one aspect of our society through your work, what would it be?
Never give up and always make interaction with fellow artists in order to understand their creativities and how do the create them. Because, creative means looking together to what other people can see and thinking through what other people could not think about.
6) What makes you happy as an artist?
I embark on a creative journey by fearlessly experimenting with a diverse range of mediums, allowing me to capture the intricate textures and vibrant colors that bring my ideas to life. As I delve into the artistic process, both paper and canvas serve as my vessels, embracing the raw and unfiltered expressions of my emotions.
At times, these artistic endeavors can be an outlet for the frustrations that dwell within me. The paper and canvas become a sanctuary where I freely pour out my thoughts and struggles, unleashing them onto the surface. However, through this cathartic release, a transformation occurs. In observing the final artwork, I witness the purification of these emotions, and a sense of cleansing washes over me.