Shafiq Nordin
The Observer
Shafiq Nordin
45(H) x 26 (W) x 34cm(D)
Acrylic & Industrial Paint on Vinyl Sculpture
2025
"Katak bawah tempurung" (the frog under the coconut shell) is Shafiq satirical take on the innocence, or rather the ignorance, that often shapes the lives of the middle and lower layers of society. Hidden beneath their own small worlds, many are unaware of the real forces shaping global crises like the ruthless trade war, rising tariffs, and economic conflicts between giants such as the United States and China. In this artwork, the dollar sign and the Chinese RMB are positioned in direct confrontation, staring eye to eye as symbols of power, greed, and rivalry. It reflects the tension between two economic giants, with ordinary people caught silently in between.
The figures, with giant burden-like forms weighing down on their backs, symbolize the heavy, colorful yet toxic load that society is forced to carry. These burdens, painted with bright yet chaotic patterns, represent how global conflicts and economic greed are dressed up as progress but, in truth, crush the spirit of the common people.
The frog, with its giant eye stretched wide open, captures that moment of overwhelming realization, a sudden, almost naive shock at the world’s true nature.
The Observer
Shafiq Nordin
45(H) x 26 (W) x 34cm(D)
Acrylic & Industrial Paint on Vinyl Sculpture
2025
"Katak bawah tempurung" (the frog under the coconut shell) is Shafiq satirical take on the innocence, or rather the ignorance, that often shapes the lives of the middle and lower layers of society. Hidden beneath their own small worlds, many are unaware of the real forces shaping global crises like the ruthless trade war, rising tariffs, and economic conflicts between giants such as the United States and China. In this artwork, the dollar sign and the Chinese RMB are positioned in direct confrontation, staring eye to eye as symbols of power, greed, and rivalry. It reflects the tension between two economic giants, with ordinary people caught silently in between.
The figures, with giant burden-like forms weighing down on their backs, symbolize the heavy, colorful yet toxic load that society is forced to carry. These burdens, painted with bright yet chaotic patterns, represent how global conflicts and economic greed are dressed up as progress but, in truth, crush the spirit of the common people.
The frog, with its giant eye stretched wide open, captures that moment of overwhelming realization, a sudden, almost naive shock at the world’s true nature.
Fly High II
Shafiq Nordin
43(H) x 43(W) x 52(D)cm
Acrylic & Industrial Paint on Vinyl Sculpture
2024
Fly High II
Shafiq Nordin
43(H) x 43(W) x 52(D)cm
Acrylic & Industrial Paint on Vinyl Sculpture
2024
A Taste Of Memories
Shafiq Nordin
152.5 x 111.5cm & 2 Small Installation
Acrylic on Canvas Mounted on MDF
2023
A Taste Of Memories
Shafiq Nordin
152.5 x 111.5cm & 2 Small Installation
Acrylic on Canvas Mounted on MDF
2023
Artist Statement
“A Taste of Memories” by Shafiq Nordin is a vibrant, pop-inspired cut-out installation that reflects the artist’s teenage memories of buying ice cream from a Chinese vendor. He fondly recalls collecting Pokémon Go stickers with each purchase, eventually earning a free ice cream after collecting ten. These stickers, featuring heroic characters, influenced his artistic direction, inspiring bold, larger-than-life figures. The artwork is filled with fun and vivid colors, showcasing Shafiq’s playful style and pop culture influences. It captures the joy of childhood memories while highlighting how they shaped his creativity and personal identity.
Di Suatu Hari yang Tenang
Shafiq Nordin
143x107cm
Acrylic on Jute
2020
Artist Statement
‘Di Suatu Hari Yang Tenang….’ Is a sarcastic statement where days that are deemed calm are suddenly swept away by the power of the government until the emergence of the coronavirus that is worrying the public.
Tukang Kanun di Bawah Tempurung
Shafiq Nordin
123x107cm
Acrylic on Jute
2020
Artist Statement
‘Tukang Kanun Di Bawah Tempurung’ is an idea that derived from a Malay proverb, ‘seperti katak dibawah tempurung’ that depicts the attitude of the netizens during the quarantine who like to spread fake news and do some weird things to get viral and likes from the social media
Beyond Borders; A Strategic Odyssey
Shafiq Nordin
120 x 100cm
Acrylic on Canvas
2024
Artist Statement
This narrative explores an artist’s journey to break out of their comfort zone, a significant barrier to achieving widespread recognition. The terrarium represents this comfort zone, confining the artist’s growth. The character symbolizes steady, deliberate progress. The artist’s career may advance slowly, but each step is carefully planned. The focus is on consistent effort and persistence, emphasizing the importance of gradual, continuous progress in the pursuit of artistic success.
It's A Beautiful Life
Shafiq Nordin
120 x 100cm
Acrylic on Canvas
2024
The genie serves as a metaphorical representation of a figure that fulfills wishes and provides what is desired by its master. In this work, the artist employs the genie character as an allegory for a father who endeavors to provide the best for his child. This task, however, is fraught with difficulties and necessitates numerous sacrifices, particularly in a world that presents significant challenges. The bond between father and son is unequivocal, with the child invariably perceiving the father as an idol and superhero.
It's A Beautiful Life
Shafiq Nordin
120 x 100cm
Acrylic on Canvas
2024
The genie serves as a metaphorical representation of a figure that fulfills wishes and provides what is desired by its master. In this work, the artist employs the genie character as an allegory for a father who endeavors to provide the best for his child. This task, however, is fraught with difficulties and necessitates numerous sacrifices, particularly in a world that presents significant challenges. The bond between father and son is unequivocal, with the child invariably perceiving the father as an idol and superhero.
Terrarium - Evolution
Shafiq Nordin
100 x 80cm
Acrylic on Canvas
2024
In Shafiq Nordin’s work, terrariums, also known as garden under glass, serve as a metaphor for the artist’s studio, a peaceful sanctuary free from distractions. Shafiq sees art as a therapy for artists, that can give peace of mind and have a positive impact on himself and the environment. Creating a serene and distraction-free setting, terrariums contribute to positive mental health and aid in boosting concentration and productivity levels. It is very helpful in the artist's daily life to get inspiration to produce the best ideas and works.
Terrarium - Evolution
Shafiq Nordin
100 x 80cm
Acrylic on Canvas
2024
In Shafiq Nordin’s work, terrariums, also known as garden under glass, serve as a metaphor for the artist’s studio, a peaceful sanctuary free from distractions. Shafiq sees art as a therapy for artists, that can give peace of mind and have a positive impact on himself and the environment. Creating a serene and distraction-free setting, terrariums contribute to positive mental health and aid in boosting concentration and productivity levels. It is very helpful in the artist's daily life to get inspiration to produce the best ideas and works.
Terrarium - Unity
Shafiq Nordin
100 x 80cm
Acrylic on Canvas
2024
In Shafiq Nordin’s work, terrariums, also known as garden under glass, serve as a metaphor for the artist’s studio, a peaceful sanctuary free from distractions. Shafiq sees art as a therapy for artists, that can give peace of mind and have a positive impact on himself and the environment. Creating a serene and distraction-free setting, terrariums contribute to positive mental health and aid in boosting concentration and productivity levels. It is very helpful in the artist's daily life to get inspiration to produce the best ideas and works.
Terrarium - Unity
Shafiq Nordin
100 x 80cm
Acrylic on Canvas
2024
In Shafiq Nordin’s work, terrariums, also known as garden under glass, serve as a metaphor for the artist’s studio, a peaceful sanctuary free from distractions. Shafiq sees art as a therapy for artists, that can give peace of mind and have a positive impact on himself and the environment. Creating a serene and distraction-free setting, terrariums contribute to positive mental health and aid in boosting concentration and productivity levels. It is very helpful in the artist's daily life to get inspiration to produce the best ideas and works.
