Noor Zahran
Cup of Hope
Noor Zahran
59 x 59cm
Ink on Paper
2024
Artist Statement
The work features a delicate paper boat sailing in a teacup, symbolizing resilience and hope in navigating life’s challenges within the confined space of the digital world. The teacup reflects the boundaries set by digital media, while the boat represents the enduring human spirit, striving for unity and freedom despite these obstacles. This artwork speaks to the power of optimism and perseverance in a world shaped by digital connections.
Resilient Globe
Noor Zahran
59 x 59cm
Ink on Paper
2024
"Resilient Globe" portrays a globe filled with sad emojis, encased in a glass of happy emojis, symbolizing the dual reality of social media. The outer layer of happy emojis reflects the polished, joyful facade often presented online, while the sad emojis within represent the hidden emotional struggles many faces beneath the surface. This artwork explores how social media can mask true feelings, creating a disconnect between appearance and reality. "Resilient Globe" invites viewers to reflect on the contrast between curated online personas and the inner emotional challenges that remain unseen in the digital world.
Resilient Globe
Noor Zahran
59 x 59cm
Ink on Paper
2024
"Resilient Globe" portrays a globe filled with sad emojis, encased in a glass of happy emojis, symbolizing the dual reality of social media. The outer layer of happy emojis reflects the polished, joyful facade often presented online, while the sad emojis within represent the hidden emotional struggles many faces beneath the surface. This artwork explores how social media can mask true feelings, creating a disconnect between appearance and reality. "Resilient Globe" invites viewers to reflect on the contrast between curated online personas and the inner emotional challenges that remain unseen in the digital world.
Beyond the Numbers
Noor Zahran
59 x 59cm
Ink on Paper
2024
Artist Statement
The artwork “Beyond the Numbers” portrays Super Mario resting wearily against a sack of blue numbers, symbols of the endless digital data we often chase—likes, followers, and shares. This piece sheds light on the toll of constant pursuit for online validation, reminding viewers of the importance of balance and genuine self-worth. Mario’s fatigue encourages us to pause and reflect on our own digital habits, guiding us to seek meaning beyond superficial metrics. The artwork calls for a return to authentic connections and inner fulfillment, prompting a reassessment of what truly brings value to our lives.
Shout It Out Loud
Noor Zahran
82 x 132cm
Ink on Paper
2023
Artist Statement
In “Shout It Out Loud,” the artist ingeniously merges the form of a grenade with that of a microphone, encapsulating the formidable force inherent in people’s voices. This artwork symbolizes the incredible power individuals possess to uplift and strengthen one another through vocal expression. Each voice is likened to a unique explosion, capable of sparking positive change and fostering empowerment. The piece serves as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact our words can have, resonating loudly like the explosive energy of a grenade. By celebrating the potency of communication, “Shout It Out Loud” urges all to recognize and embrace their ability to make a difference through the strength of their voices, transcending barriers of background or language proficiency.
Free to Play
Noor Zahran
82 x 132cm
Ink on Paper
2024
Artist Statement
“Free to Play” portrays a Gameboy transformed into a social media hub, symbolizing the potential downsides of excessive screen time and the need for a balanced approach to technology. By imagining social media in the ’90s, it prompts reflection on the impact of early exposure to digital platforms and advocates for mindful engagement with technology for our well-being and relationships.
Purchasing for Protection
Noor Zahran
55 x 79.5cm
Pencil on Paper
2025
This photograph, taken on February 1, 2020, in front of ANSA Hotel Kuala Lumpur, captures a moment that, at the time, felt ordinary, a woman buying a facemask before masks became a daily necessity. Back then, during my lunchtime walks around Bukit Bintang, the city still moved at its usual pace, unaware of how drastically things would shift.
Looking at this image today, it speaks to how cities and communities adapt over time. What was once a rare sight has now become second nature. The way we navigate public spaces, interact with one another, and incorporate new habits into our daily lives reflects the evolving nature of urban society. From digital transactions to redefined work cultures and shifting social dynamics, we have reshaped our routines to align with new realities. This photograph is a quiet reflection of that shift, how small actions eventually weave into the fabric of our cities, shaping the way we live, connect, and move forward together.
Purchasing for Protection
Noor Zahran
55 x 79.5cm
Pencil on Paper
2025
This photograph, taken on February 1, 2020, in front of ANSA Hotel Kuala Lumpur, captures a moment that, at the time, felt ordinary, a woman buying a facemask before masks became a daily necessity. Back then, during my lunchtime walks around Bukit Bintang, the city still moved at its usual pace, unaware of how drastically things would shift.
Looking at this image today, it speaks to how cities and communities adapt over time. What was once a rare sight has now become second nature. The way we navigate public spaces, interact with one another, and incorporate new habits into our daily lives reflects the evolving nature of urban society. From digital transactions to redefined work cultures and shifting social dynamics, we have reshaped our routines to align with new realities. This photograph is a quiet reflection of that shift, how small actions eventually weave into the fabric of our cities, shaping the way we live, connect, and move forward together.
Between Caution and Routine
Noor Zahran
55.5 x 79.5cm
Pencil on Paper
2025
In February 2020, in front of Bank Simpanan Nasional, Lebuh Ampang, Kuala Lumpur, the city was already shifting. The early presence of COVID-19 had begun to reshape daily life. Face masks were not yet mandatory, but caution was in the air.
People moved through familiar spaces with quiet awareness, their routines subtly altered. Public areas remained active, yet interactions grew more restrained. What once felt effortless now carried a sense of hesitation. Today, that vigilance lingers, shaping how individuals navigate shared environments.
Between Caution and Routine
Noor Zahran
55.5 x 79.5cm
Pencil on Paper
2025
In February 2020, in front of Bank Simpanan Nasional, Lebuh Ampang, Kuala Lumpur, the city was already shifting. The early presence of COVID-19 had begun to reshape daily life. Face masks were not yet mandatory, but caution was in the air.
People moved through familiar spaces with quiet awareness, their routines subtly altered. Public areas remained active, yet interactions grew more restrained. What once felt effortless now carried a sense of hesitation. Today, that vigilance lingers, shaping how individuals navigate shared environments.