Skateboarding has been the root of my life's learning for the past 23 years. From this Western practice, I've also learned about my identity and self-abilities through the process of 'mark-making'. Besides the aesthetic value of 'raw' street-culture, the culture of intensity and contradictions has also become an important element of my work. From time to time, as I 'ride' on my own, seeking the purpose of existence, many objects and subjects, whether living or non-living, often beckon me to 'record' or observe (inhale), thereby opening questions to be responded to. And art is the channel for this outward 'breath,' responding to it in any medium available to me at that particular time.
Fauzan Fuad (b. Kuala Lumpur, 1987) is a self-taught painter and photographer based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia who began his career through an apprenticeship under Yusof Ismail’s (Yusof Gajah) at the University of Malaya in 2012.
His work is primarily influenced by Malaysian street and skateboarding culture, street-art, punk, and the western Ab-Ex (1950s era) movement and practices. Through his lifelong devotion to skateboarding, he discovered not only his identity but also his artistic talent through the process of 'mark-making’. In addition to embracing the aesthetic allure of 'raw' authenticity, Fauzan finds inspiration in the intensity of the urban experience, the coexistence of contradictions, and the vibrant spectrum of colours.
As he navigates life's path, he is compelled to 'record' and observe the world, inhaling its essence using any available medium at his disposal, including Spray-paint. Regardless of whether his methods follow, contradict, or challenge convention, the artistic process remains a steadfast tool that enables him to reflect on his journey and achieve equilibrium between the physical and spiritual facets of his being.
Fauzan had his first solo exhibition at China House, Penang, in 2018, followed by a solo photography exhibition, “44,” at Zon Tiga, Kuala Lumpur, in 2020. He has also participated in several group exhibitions locally and internationally, including: Gwangju International Art Fair (represented by Hin Bus Depot Gallery), Gwangju,South Korea (2020); SH/FT: Contemporary Visual Art organized by CENDANA, White Box MAPKL@Publika, Kuala Lumpur (2019); “Cannot Be Bo(a)rded,”Espace Commines, Paris, France (2017); Malaysian Art Expo 2015 (by A2 Gallery); “CONSTANT PRESENT” organized by FINDARS, FINDARS Art Space, Kuala Lumpur (2021); and was selected last year for the Malaysia Emerging Artist Award 2022 Exhibition by CIMB Foundation & Hom Art Trans Gallery, Kuala Lumpur. He currently lives and works in Selangor.