Nadi
Solo Exhibition by Khairudin Zainudin
19 Apr - 3 May 2025
G13 Gallery is proud to present NADI, a solo exhibition by Malaysian artist Khairudin Zainudin.
This exhibition delves into the rich heritage of Kelantan’s fishing communities, exploring their traditions, resilience and enduring connection to the sea.Through a compelling showcase of intricate sketches and ornamental installations, Khairudin brings to life the craftsmanship of the perahu kolek, Kelantan’s traditional fishing boats, celebrated for their vivid colours and elaborate carvings. Influenced by the artisans of southern Thailand, these boats stand as cultural emblems of identity and protection.
With NADI, Khairudin captures the daily rhythms of the fishermen, revealing their spirit of teamwork and perseverance amid shifting tides and modern-day challenges.
NADI will run from 19 April to 3 May 2025 at G13 Gallery.
Bersatu Kita Kuat, Bercerai Kita Jatuh
Khairudin Zainudin
49 x 128cm
Acrylic on Canvas and Wood Cutout Installation
2024
Bersatu Kita Kuat, Bercerai Kita Jatuh mean "United We Are Strong, Divided We Fall"
This proverb captures the spirit of Kelantanese fishermen, whose livelihood relies on unity, cooperation and trust. From preparing their boats at dawn to braving the open sea, every task is shared. Teamwork isn't just practical, it is a way of life. Without it, the risks are greater and the journey becomes uncertain.
Bersatu Kita Kuat, Bercerai Kita Jatuh
Khairudin Zainudin
49 x 128cm
Acrylic on Canvas and Wood Cutout Installation
2024
Bersatu Kita Kuat, Bercerai Kita Jatuh mean "United We Are Strong, Divided We Fall"
This proverb captures the spirit of Kelantanese fishermen, whose livelihood relies on unity, cooperation and trust. From preparing their boats at dawn to braving the open sea, every task is shared. Teamwork isn't just practical, it is a way of life. Without it, the risks are greater and the journey becomes uncertain.
Sap Kok Luh!
Khairudin Zainudin
24cm(H) x 110cm(W) x 3(D)cm
Acrylic on Carved Wood
2025
This title” Sap Kok Luh” comes from the Kelantanese dialect and directly translates to "Have a smoke first." It reflects a common cultural gesture of taking a moment to relax, often done after completing a task or simply as a way to linger and enjoy the present before moving on.
Sap Kok Luh!
Khairudin Zainudin
24cm(H) x 110cm(W) x 3(D)cm
Acrylic on Carved Wood
2025
This title” Sap Kok Luh” comes from the Kelantanese dialect and directly translates to "Have a smoke first." It reflects a common cultural gesture of taking a moment to relax, often done after completing a task or simply as a way to linger and enjoy the present before moving on.
Mat Bunga 1
Khairudin Zainudin
45.5 x 35.5cm
Acrylic on Canvas
2025
The people and floral elements found on the boats have added depth to his research. Floral motifs are commonly painted on most boats, and Khairudin has drawn from these to incorporate into his artwork. His piece titled Mat Bunga subtly captures the core ideas and purpose of the entire project. Though its approach is gentle, it effectively conveys the essence and message behind the whole body of work.
Mat Bunga 1
Khairudin Zainudin
45.5 x 35.5cm
Acrylic on Canvas
2025
The people and floral elements found on the boats have added depth to his research. Floral motifs are commonly painted on most boats, and Khairudin has drawn from these to incorporate into his artwork. His piece titled Mat Bunga subtly captures the core ideas and purpose of the entire project. Though its approach is gentle, it effectively conveys the essence and message behind the whole body of work.
Mat Bunga 2
Khairudin Zainudin
45.5 x 35.5cm
Acrylic on Canvas
2025
The people and floral elements found on the boats have added depth to his research. Floral motifs are commonly painted on most boats, and Khairudin has drawn from these to incorporate into his artwork. His piece titled Mat Bunga subtly captures the core ideas and purpose of the entire project. Though its approach is gentle, it effectively conveys the essence and message behind the whole body of work.
Mat Bunga 2
Khairudin Zainudin
45.5 x 35.5cm
Acrylic on Canvas
2025
The people and floral elements found on the boats have added depth to his research. Floral motifs are commonly painted on most boats, and Khairudin has drawn from these to incorporate into his artwork. His piece titled Mat Bunga subtly captures the core ideas and purpose of the entire project. Though its approach is gentle, it effectively conveys the essence and message behind the whole body of work.
Arus dan Kudrat
Khairudin Zainudin
29.5 x 84cm
Dermatograph Pencil on Hahnemuhle Watercolor Paper
2025
A series of drawings by Khairudin captures fishermen at work. The spirit of cooperation, solidarity through communal work, a strong hold on heritage, resilient cultural values that remain largely untouched by outside influences or trends, and a laid-back yet hardworking lifestyle are all elements and values that shine like gems in today’s way of life.
Arus dan Kudrat
Khairudin Zainudin
29.5 x 84cm
Dermatograph Pencil on Hahnemuhle Watercolor Paper
2025
A series of drawings by Khairudin captures fishermen at work. The spirit of cooperation, solidarity through communal work, a strong hold on heritage, resilient cultural values that remain largely untouched by outside influences or trends, and a laid-back yet hardworking lifestyle are all elements and values that shine like gems in today’s way of life.
Rentak Bahu Membahu
Khairudin Zainudin
29.5 x 84cm
Dermatograph Pencil on Hahnemuhle Watercolor Paper
2025
Rentak Bahu Membahu
Khairudin Zainudin
29.5 x 84cm
Dermatograph Pencil on Hahnemuhle Watercolor Paper
2025
Berganding Kudrat 1
Khairudin Zainudin
42 x 29.5cm
Dermatograph Pencil on Hahnemuhle Watercolor Paper
2025
Berganding Kudrat 1
Khairudin Zainudin
42 x 29.5cm
Dermatograph Pencil on Hahnemuhle Watercolor Paper
2025
Berganding Kudrat 2
Khairudin Zainudin
42 x 29.5cm
Dermatograph Pencil on Hahnemuhle Watercolor Paper
2025
Berganding Kudrat 2
Khairudin Zainudin
42 x 29.5cm
Dermatograph Pencil on Hahnemuhle Watercolor Paper
2025
Berganding Kudrat 3
Khairudin Zainudin
42 x 29.5cm
Dermatograph Pencil on Hahnemuhle Watercolor Paper
2025
Berganding Kudrat 3
Khairudin Zainudin
42 x 29.5cm
Dermatograph Pencil on Hahnemuhle Watercolor Paper
2025
Berganding Kudrat 4
Khairudin Zainudin
42 x 29.5cm
Dermatograph Pencil on Hahnemuhle Watercolor Paper
2025
Berganding Kudrat 4
Khairudin Zainudin
42 x 29.5cm
Dermatograph Pencil on Hahnemuhle Watercolor Paper
2025
Berganding Kudrat 5
Khairudin Zainudin
42 x 29.5cm
Dermatograph Pencil on Hahnemuhle Watercolor Paper
2025
Berganding Kudrat 5
Khairudin Zainudin
42 x 29.5cm
Dermatograph Pencil on Hahnemuhle Watercolor Paper
2025
Berganding Kudrat 6
Khairudin Zainudin
42 x 29.5cm
Dermatograph Pencil on Hahnemuhle Watercolor Paper
2025
Berganding Kudrat 6
Khairudin Zainudin
42 x 29.5cm
Dermatograph Pencil on Hahnemuhle Watercolor Paper
2025
Berganding Kudrat 7
Khairudin Zainudin
42 x 29.5cm
Dermatograph Pencil on Hahnemuhle Watercolor Paper
2025
Berganding Kudrat 7
Khairudin Zainudin
42 x 29.5cm
Dermatograph Pencil on Hahnemuhle Watercolor Paper
2025
Daya, Daya, Berdaya!
Khairudin Zainudin
42 x 29.5cm
Dermatograph Pencil on Hahnemuhle Watercolor Paper
2025
1, 2, 3... tariiik!!! A familiar chant heard along the coast as fishermen pull in heavy boat to the shore. More than coordination, it symbolizes unity, rhythm, and shared strength. Their voices rise together, blending effort with a deep sense of community.
"Daya Daya Berdaya" captures resilient spirit. The artwork reflects how nelayan rely not only on physical strength but also on teamwork, trust and determination. Fishing becomes more than just work, it is a collective struggle shaped by rhythm, sweat and purpose.
Daya, Daya, Berdaya!
Khairudin Zainudin
42 x 29.5cm
Dermatograph Pencil on Hahnemuhle Watercolor Paper
2025
1, 2, 3... tariiik!!! A familiar chant heard along the coast as fishermen pull in heavy boat to the shore. More than coordination, it symbolizes unity, rhythm, and shared strength. Their voices rise together, blending effort with a deep sense of community.
"Daya Daya Berdaya" captures resilient spirit. The artwork reflects how nelayan rely not only on physical strength but also on teamwork, trust and determination. Fishing becomes more than just work, it is a collective struggle shaped by rhythm, sweat and purpose.
Daya, Daya, Berdaya! 2
Khairudin Zainudin
42 x 29.5cm
Dermatograph Pencil on Hahnemuhle Watercolor Paper
2025
Daya, Daya, Berdaya! 2
Khairudin Zainudin
42 x 29.5cm
Dermatograph Pencil on Hahnemuhle Watercolor Paper
2025
Daya, Daya, Berdaya! 3
Khairudin Zainudin
42 x 29.5cm
Dermatograph Pencil on Hahnemuhle Watercolor Paper
2025
Daya, Daya, Berdaya! 3
Khairudin Zainudin
42 x 29.5cm
Dermatograph Pencil on Hahnemuhle Watercolor Paper
2025
Minum Senja di Darat
Khairudin Zainudin
41.5 x 91.5cm
Scratch on Digital Printed Aluminium
2024
"Minum Senja di Darat" goes beyond simply depicting a scene of relaxation. It portrays life itself. Set against the backdrop of a fishing boat, the painting reflects the slow, intentional pace of the fishermen's way of life, where balance between work and rest is key. Khairudin highlights the ritual of sharing a quiet moment at dusk, a time for reflection, reconnection, and restoration. This scene carries a deeper moral, reminding viewers of the importance of pausing and appreciating the simple moments, no matter how busy life may be.
Minum Senja di Darat
Khairudin Zainudin
41.5 x 91.5cm
Scratch on Digital Printed Aluminium
2024
"Minum Senja di Darat" goes beyond simply depicting a scene of relaxation. It portrays life itself. Set against the backdrop of a fishing boat, the painting reflects the slow, intentional pace of the fishermen's way of life, where balance between work and rest is key. Khairudin highlights the ritual of sharing a quiet moment at dusk, a time for reflection, reconnection, and restoration. This scene carries a deeper moral, reminding viewers of the importance of pausing and appreciating the simple moments, no matter how busy life may be.
Jika Awan dan Badai Kencang Jangan Ke Laut
Khairudin Zainudin
61 x 150.5cm
Ink & Watercolour on Paper
2022
In this painting, Khairudin portrays a monsoon scene with strong winds, captured through dynamic line movements. The fisherman’s gaze reflects a sense of dilemma, torn between the call of the sea and the dangerous conditions. The painting encapsulates the internal struggle and wisdom of knowing when to hold back, embodying the proverb's lesson of caution and respect for nature's power.
Jika Awan dan Badai Kencang Jangan Ke Laut
Khairudin Zainudin
61 x 150.5cm
Ink & Watercolour on Paper
2022
In this painting, Khairudin portrays a monsoon scene with strong winds, captured through dynamic line movements. The fisherman’s gaze reflects a sense of dilemma, torn between the call of the sea and the dangerous conditions. The painting encapsulates the internal struggle and wisdom of knowing when to hold back, embodying the proverb's lesson of caution and respect for nature's power.
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