DIARISENI

Can Typography as Design be experimented?

2009-12-25T23:57:00.000-08:00

ln Design Studies 1, my students have studied Principles of Design?But that is just learning the concept and not the real application.l did observed that many students look bored making artworks about 'concepts in art'.They just wanted to move further as fast as possibble and test their creativity. Well, the time will come soon.

l am sorry to borrow examples of the typographic creative works as shown above from other sources.There is no intention of making any profit from this act of borrowing but it is just for learning purposes only.ln Art,looking,observing and appreciating is a form of learning process.

What does the above examples show?We can still see that typography are used to an extended form.ln this case,some experimental ideas in using letters are being exploited to create a good design fit for certain purposes.In fact many good design did use typography or selection of good lettering to create an interesting atmosphere thus giving a good message.

Can we do more in our future design using creative Typography?

Design and Typography

2009-12-25T23:00:00.000-08:00

l am aware that i am not active in writing and posting new ideas in this blog for quite sometime. This is due to heavy workload which demands much of my my time.However, i did not forget that i must write something in order that the readers of my blog have something to think about.
The year 2009 will be closing soon. l still remember that i first started this blog at the end of 2008.Its almost the same time now in 2009 that new ideas keep coming to me to continue writing.The reason is simple.At this time of the year i am always on my annual leave and nothing is on my shoulder where work is concerned.So ,i have the time to think.

Beginning 2010, i will spend more time on the new Art Programme at UBD.We are about to finalise the programme structure and the nature of courses in this programme.We realise the importance of this programme either to UBD and the public as a whole.l hope i can use my blog to deliver some important things in this programme.Basically, this programme is to educate the students to become a professional artist and designer.

ln last semester (Aug 2009 -Nov 2009), my students in this programme was taking Design Studies 1 with me.ln this course, the students were introduced with the knowledge and skills about the basic elements of art and design.Students are required to know about the basic concepts of art elements and the skills in applying the concept to visual ideas.

ln the coming semester,students will be continuing to Design Studies 11. ln this course, students will have the chance to be more practical about things that will happen in their future career i.e the real skills in design making ,be it in Graphic Communication or Product Design.

ln this post, i only wanted to introduce about the importance of learning Typography and its impact on Design.l have already started discussing about Typography in my earlier post in this blog.Today, i just wanted to show a few example of how fonts and different kinds of lettering and sizes can produce a good design plus giving a direct information about the message it carries.
What do you think about these examples? What do you learn?

Simple study of Shapes

2009-10-27T18:46:00.000-07:00

Many of my students are taking Visual Art as an elective subject.Art is not their major option in their programme of study.In an elective classes like this,these students are either not taking art in their previous public examinations or even during their entire secondary education.A situation like this is interesting because it raises the question of what should be taught in an art subject for 'non art minded' students.
l have always tried many experiments in teaching art for this kind of students and i found that they can do.l always tried to devise activities that make them think and manipulate many ways of making things look interesting.l know that these students are not having the skills that art students must have but everybody can think.So art and thinking is the best option for these students plus some psychomotor skills in handling art tools and materials.
Take for example in the study of shapes.Why study shapes?Because shape is one of the important elements in Visual Art.The recognition of shapes,the identification, selection of shapes and the manipulation of shapes will contribute to the creative process in art.Take for example a student need to do a logo in his/her assignment.Logos are shapes.So,studying the process of emerging new shapes according to certain context is vital in making a good logo.
In this post.i have attached photos of shape making process as an activity in this elective art class.

Sketchbook...Why we need a Sketchbook?The importance of having a sketchbook

2009-10-15T14:44:00.000-07:00

Every week i am now teaching the Design Studies class of the new B.A Art Programme.This is a shift of focus in the way i have been teaching at Universiti Brunei Darussalam.All this while, for more than seventeen years ,i am involved in teaching art for education programmes like B.A Primary,B.A Education,PGCE,B.Ed Art, etc. Art courses in education programmes are more of learning the suitability of a certain level of art making for different grades of pupils in schools, the means of promoting creativity through art lessons, knowing different media and process in art making.Whereas now, in this new B.A Art Programme, i am no more teaching art for education programme.This new B.A Art is meant to produce artist and designers, professional people in this area.So the approach of teaching must change.
Anyway ,what is the relationship of me writing about the new programme to the topic of 'sketchbook'.?lt is quite simple to answer.In order for students to become professional artists and designers,they must have and able to bring out good and original ideas.But how?Can we as teachers and lecturers develop a way so as pupils acquire the habit of looking for ideas,recording any instant ideas in a systematic way?The answer is 'yes'.The old and traditional habit of recording any idea in a 'sketchbook is a proven method of gathering ideas for any great art piece.Just study any great art masterpiece,What do we get?Those masterpieces were all developed through ifferent process of study by the artist and can be seen in their sketchbooks.So,sketchbooks are important elements in art making because it is a mean of recording processes before the final great idea emerged.
As i am now training pupils to become this so called artist and designers and no more art teachers, i realised that,SEARCHING,LOOKING,RECORDING,RESEARCHING visually is very important.This is where 'sketchbooks' will come into place in the pupils learning process.In order to create good and meaningful paintings or good and suitable designs,the creator must have the' search for ideas' habit because good works does not come instantly.

Typography as Art

2009-09-25T23:15:00.000-07:00

What is Typography?ln simple word Typography is the art of doing good lettering.But what for?
Must we study Typography?ls it simple?ls there a way to study?
All these questions must be in the mind of art student or art teachers.Put it this way,we all loved to see things arranged in a artistic way.Although the objects are simple but arrangement can make it very pleasing.So are the letters or alphabets that we see each day.l must say we must have that skill of making good lettering in our project or assignment.
This is another subject that l would like to discuss in my blog.l hope many will become interested in this subject.l will write more.

Want to be a Video Game or Computer Game Designer?

2009-09-25T22:30:00.000-07:00

Gaming Industry is a big business.Many people love to play video games.But have we questioned ourselves that 'can we participate in this industry? l mean not as a player but as the CREATOR.If we think a moment about this question,i am sure the answer will be positive.l am sure there is an INTERESTING CAREER lying ahead of us.l am sure many young people will love to join this industry.
One of my son is now in this business.He is now studying and researching at a postgraduate level.l would like to share this thinking of mine to others so that more will join and necome interested.First, read what i gather:-

Have you dreamt about working with the game developers on the next version of Halo?

Would you like to become a video game designer working on the Playstation 3, XBox 360, or Nintendo Wii? Well, you're not alone. Read a bit further, and we'll show you that you might not be that far away from your dream career. Learn how to become a video game designer.

What is the outlook for the video game designer?

Video games are big business. We're talking about a multi-billion dollar industry that has now outgrown many other industries in a very short period of time. Video games are no longer looked upon as kids entertainment. Walk into any video games outlet, and you will see 20-30 year olds checking out the latest versions of Grand Theft Auto or the Sims. With the recent releases of the Xbox 360, the PS3 and the Nintendo Wii, producing games will be harder and a lot more involved. Video game designer teams producing these games have ballooned in size to meet the demand of a next gen experience.

So what does this mean for you? Basically, there are a load of opportunities to get into the video game industry. Video game popularity and complexity is exploding, and so are the opportunities at game companies and studios.

What qualities do I need for game design?

There are some qualities that game companies will be looking for when hiring someone into their fold.

First off, you really should like video games. You should be the kind of person that hears the theme song to a game in your sleep. These companies want to hire someone who knows what makes a game good, and what makes a game bad. They want someone who knows good level design vs poor level design. The only way to do this is by playing, and playing AND playing video games over and over again. There are a load of people who spend all their time playing these games. Why should they hire someone then that hasn't put their time into gaming, and doesn't have the same passion for games as others?

Secondly, they are looking for someone with good problem solving skills. There are so many bugs and potential problems when designing a game. This ranges from collision detection to making things look convincing. You need to be the type who is willing to solve a problem even if it kills you. Hopefully this will not happen. ; )

Finally, they are looking for someone who can do things in a crunch. The gaming industry works at a torrid pace. Yes, you need to be patient, but you need to be awfully efficient in what you do.

(http://www.adigitaldreamer.com/articles/becomeavideogamedesigner.htm)

Approaches to teaching Character Design

2009-09-25T21:18:00.000-07:00

Can a subject Character Design be taught in s systematic way so that anybody who is new will acquire the knowledge and skills of doing this interesting 'artwork'.
We have seen many comic,cartoon and games character being exposed to us through the media. Children or even adults loved to see the characters moving or acting.Many people have tried to do or copy their favourite character.Maybe 'copying' is easy but to create one character of your own is damn difficult.My question is--can we learn to do Character Design?
As i gather more information about this subject, i will write in this blog.Anybody who is interested can contribute their idea in this subject

What i know at the moment?
Character Design is a study about many aspects of a Character.Before we could sketch or draw any character we must be sure what the character is all about.lf we are given any assignment to do a character we must gather information as much as possibble about the character.But, what kind of information?Where do we get the information?How to compile the information?These are the basic questions that we must ask ourself.So i think,the first exercise or assignment in a Character Design course is 'to be able to gather the character info and describe the character and the situation.What skills are needed here?Searching for info, writing the info,analysing the info.

Colour Study

2009-09-25T07:11:00.000-07:00

Why study color theory? If you are involved in the creation or design of visual documents, an understanding of color will help when incorporating it into your own designs. Choices regarding color often seem rather mystical, as many seem to base decisions on nothing other than "it looks right." Although often told I had an eye for color, the reason why some colors worked together while others did not always intrigued me and I found the study of color theory fascinating.While attending the University of Minnesota I enrolled in almost every course I could from different departments: graphic design, interior design, and fine arts. During my studies, I learned that there were 2 main reasons why scholars investigated color—the first involved the communication of colors; the other involved the application of color.

(http://www.worqx.com/color/index.htm)

Well,thats the reason why a thorough study of colour is essential for any student who wish to study about art and design.Last week,my Design Studies class had their first taste about colour.What i mean by first taste is that,the students were given a proper way of recognising the effects of colour mixture,the proper way of mixing and applying colour.
l found out that students still inherit their way of mixing colour as what they practiced in school.They are afraid to use more amount of their colour.They still have to learn what i mean by applying 'flat colour'
Last week,my students learn about the colour wheel an after that they will learn about harmonious and contrasting colour.

Character Designer as a career

2009-09-25T00:52:00.001-07:00

Character design is an interesting subject.l don’t know that there are many more things to learn about this area than what i think of. l became interested when I saw my children who are taking Animation Studies doing many projects in their programme studies especially learning about Character Design.l found out that Character Designer or Character Artist must have certain skills and knowledge in this area. lndeed, this knowledge is very useful.But the most important aspect for character designer is becoming ‘yourself’.What l mean becoming ‘yourself’ is that, after acquiring all the knowledge and skill is creating your own ‘design’ of a certain character.
What motivates me to learn more about this subject is that l will be teaching this subject area in my coming teaching schedule.As an educator in the visual art for the past 30 years and mainly focusing in pedagogical studies for art teaching, my interest became varies each day.One thing that sticks to my mind is that in order to teach a subject or any area of a subject we must be guided by certain principles. My first exposure in the field of Fine Art have given me an awareness that ‘Creativity’ is the keyword that any people who wish to enter into this area as their career.Another thing for us to become ‘ourselves’ is that we must always ready to do many new things and always practice on the subject.This process is long.One must not feel bored..
I will write more about this subject in my next post.
Note: The above images are examples only.l would like like to thank the artist or the producers to borrow the images as an intoduction to this subject.

Pen Drawing

2009-09-17T17:56:00.000-07:00

This is the fifth exercise in using various drawing materials in my Drawing class.l was not very sure whether my students are able to use pen in this class as they are new to this material.But before that i have asked them to buy vatious kinds of pen available at the stationery shop.Among the pens that they have acquired are the felt or marker pens,calligraphic pens ,technical pens and the ordinary ball pen.
The subject in today's class is a bunch of rambutan and some empty cans.To my suprise all students choose rambutan as the subject for this exercise.ln this exercise i did emphasise the effects of pen in making a good drawing like the thickness of pen,the nature of lines,the textural effect.Unlike other previous exercise where students learn how to blend colours with either the rubbing method or eraser method,students using the pen cannot use that method.

Making Sculptural Forms

2009-09-06T07:10:00.000-07:00

Practical Studio in 3D is another subject in Sarjana Muda Penidikan(SMP) Senilukis.Last week the Year 2 students in this programme continue their work in making various sculptural forms.They begin their work by observing and recording various forms in nature,drawing the forms and making alterations to their drawings.Later they tried to imitate the forms by using soft materilas like sponge.After more exercises in manipulating these forms,the students later carved their selected forms by using plaster of paris.The photos in this post was taken during the carving of forms using the plaster.Here students are encouraged to wear facial mask during the carving process.

Pastel Drawing,

2009-09-03T19:01:00.000-07:00

Last week my students in the Drawing Technique class was having a fun day experimenting the soft and the oil pastel as a drawing material.As usual they were briefed with the few techniques in using this medium like the Blending, Line,Side and Scribble methods.
l did stressed that during the blending method that their choice of pastel colours are important.Students are encouraged to observe carefully the colours of the objects before they choose the pastel colour.Observation is the keyword to a better drawing.Failures in making a good drawing are because students usually imagine when they draw and not observing what is infront of them,,either the shape,location or colours.So i think,,any drawing class must begin with lectures in 'observation techniques'.

Design Studies 1 - B.A Art

2009-08-28T04:19:00.001-07:00

So what is Design Studies in the new B.A Art Programme at UBD? Design Studies is one of the subjects introduced in Semester One for this new programme.The subject is mainly an introduction to the study about basic fundamentals of Art and Design.lt will focus on the understanding about basic art elements,principles of design and manipulation of design ideas that can be applied to various art creations.This subject will be taught through lectures, discussions and hand on exercises.For me, i prefer a lot of exercises and discussions as students will gather the meaning to each concept being introduced.The main objective is to make the students well aware that ideas for design are everywhere.lt is up to them to have their creative minds look for many solutions in making designs more relevant to the needs of society.Problem solving and design solutions are the key emphasis for any design work and it is this experience that i would like to instill among the students.
The first few exercises in this month will be the study about line as art elements.Although in my other classes for other programmes 'lines' are also introduced, 'lines 'as an element in design will be more of 'applied' methods to design work.However,students will explore the expressive qualities that 'lines' can offer in design work.

Charcoal Drawings

2009-08-27T04:29:00.001-07:00

Bahan dan Teknik dalam Lukisan is an elective subject at UBD.Today(27.8.2009)students in the B.Ed Art and B.A Primary are doing their first charcoal drawing exercise.They are using either the stick charcoal or the charcoal pencil.The subjects for the drawing exercise are kitchen pans,kettle,kuali and platic containers.
ln this exercise, l stressed on the expressive qualities of this charcoal medium.Pupils are advised to use the flexibility of getting tonal effects from this drawing material.l pointed out about the high tone(very black) ,medium tone and low tone that the students must show in their drawings.
Another point is the selection of angles an usage of space on their drawing paper.
At first, l noticed that the students are quite afraid in using this charcoal.l have to demonstrare and gave a lot of motivation.In the end,the students realised that charcoal is a good medium in drawing and more easier than pencil.l am satisfied with today's outcome of my student's work.

Lines from Nature

2009-08-25T06:25:00.000-07:00

Today(25/8/2009), i have a class with B.A Primary second year class.The students are taking Art as an elective subject in their programme. l have been teaching Art for B.A Primary prog. students for many years before this,but l don't know why i have a feeling that i am being challenged in my teaching in this class.Most of the students told me that they were not taking art during their secondary school studies.But now they are taking art with me at the university level.Another most challenging 'task' is that i am having one 'handicap' student.This is the first time in my life after having taught art for 30 years that i have such a student and he will be doing art.Well..i will make sure that this student will not only love art but can do art as good as other student.l promise l will guide you.(See the photos of students in this class)
Today,the students are exploring the varieties of lines in nature.They have already made line drawings of trees,flowers,leaves and grass in last week's assignmentToday, they are selesting parts of their line drawings and painting it with black colour.Their job is to paint the selected lines into thick,thin, and positive and negative lines.The students were quite confused at the very beginning but later they look confident.Many have shown good works at the end of the lesson.
l will write more about this class later in my post.l enjoy teaching this class.

More Pictures during UBD Art Fest 2009

2009-08-22T02:55:00.000-07:00

Above are additional pictures of SMP Art and B.A Art students during the ART FEST at UBD inAugust 2009.

Art Fest at UBD

2009-08-21T22:40:00.000-07:00

Recently,UBD Art students showcase their work at The Art Fest which was held in conjunction with the International Youth Day celebration at this University.The venue of the celebration was at Taman Selera(another name of a Food Zone at UBD) where previoulsy it was only called a canteen.This Taman Selera was upgraded with many new stalls selling food.It is an honour now for Art Students and other art lovers here that this 'food zone' also housed many good art pieces.It now looks like an art gallery.Thanks to the University Administration especially the Vice Chancellor who have given attention to the needs of new talents to be developed among the students.
During the Art Fest, many categories of art was displayed.Among them was Batik Painting, Drawings, Oil Paintings,Sculpture,Ceramics,Graohic Works and New Media.The Vice Chancellor of UBD,Dr Hj Zulkarnain was the guest of honour at the opening ceremony.I had a tough time explaining to the VC about the student's work.I am happy that the VC was impressed about the show and advising the students to pursue more agressively in their art endeavour.

DRAWING CLASS

2009-08-21T22:15:00.000-07:00

It's been a long time that i haven't post any new items in this blog.Well,,too much of other things to.Many new things keep cropping up and demand some attention from me,Anyway,i have to find time to continue submitting to this blog.
The start of the semester(August 2009) is a continuation of learning for my students.I will try to put in many new ideas.
The class which i like is the Drawing class.the first lesson was about the study of a few drawing technique i.e Gestural Lines Technique, Blending Technique and Eraser Technique.These are among the basic technique which i suppose will help the student to know how drawings can be done.

The search for 'identity' in Brunei Batik

2009-06-01T07:03:00.000-07:00

On Sunday(31.5.2009) i have a long conversation with my friend Awg Zainal Abidin Ibrahim at his Batik Shop in Sumbangsih Mulia Building at Beribi,Brunei.l have known Zainal since our student days learning Art in Kuala Lumpur.Since then,we have been good friends.
What interest me to have a conversation today is to ask about his search for an identity in the making of Brunei Batik.Zainal is so keen to develop 'motifs' that can carry something about Brunei.He believes that any artist/batik entrepreneur should develop motifs that are different from what others from any region have shown in their work.lt is only after having our own 'motifs' that we can claim the work as ours.
'How do you start this journey in developing the Brunei motifs in your Batik Art?'How do you proceed in this search?What have you achieved so far?These are the three questions that i have asked Zainal in my conversation.
Zainal's explanation started by pointing out that Batik can be done by four different ways i.e by hand-drawn,using metal blocks,screen printing and digital printing.One has to master the technical aspect before proceeding to the search for content(motifs and design).
The 'content' part of the Batik is where the design lies and the manipulation of design can developed to the finding of 'identity'.Zainal believes that the understanding of Brunei Culture,the society and the practices should be the basis for his search in the Brunei Motifs''After a series of study, he found out that most design motifs in traditional crafts of Brunei be it from woodcarving,weaving and house decorations was mainly adopted from the local flora and fauna.Most of these traditional motifs appear to be used widely in the local culture''
His second step is to manipulate the shapes of the Simpur flower i.e the national flower of Brunei to become an interesting design.He believes this can bring out some new motifs.ln fact he have done many series of designs from the Simpur flower.Another of his effort is to combine the Cengkeh Flower as another shape in his design.Cengkeh shapes have been used in the local designs.So what is the result of his adventure in incorporating these ideas.ln this post i have put some photos of Zainal's design for his Batik Art.

Traditional crafts as souvenirs

2009-05-24T06:41:00.000-07:00

Another great job was done to promote traditional Brunei crafts.Although not the real piece but only as miniature of the craft,these traditional crafts was turned into beautiful souvenirs.For any lovers of traditional crafts, these pieces are now on sale at the 'push cart' like kiosk around the Yayasan Shopping Complex in Bandar Seri Begawan.
l found out that these souviners became an attraction for passers-by at the complex.l was told that the sale of these souvenirs is encouraging.For any collectors of souvenirs,this is another chance to get your piece.

Artist and his Art Shop cum Gallery in Brunei

2009-05-24T01:31:00.000-07:00

Not all artist have their own gallery.In Brunei i found out that artist Hj Fadzil have the courage to open an art shop cum his own gallery at the strategic shopping complex in Yayasan at Bandar Seri Begawan.This gallery is located at the first floor of the Yayasan Complex and is open everyday.
Today - 24 May 2009 - i visited Hj Fadzil and have some conversation with him.He told me that he started painting at around 1969.ln 1978 he joined the civil service as an artist at the Brunei Museum Dept.At present he is still with the Museum and now responsible for the Museum Dept. Art Gallery.
Hj Fadzil is working more with water colour, oil and acrylic painting.His subjects for painting are mostly the Brunei landscapes.At his gallery, l have seen many of his works hanging,small and big.His works are also with many art collectors,locally and abroad and also at the private sectors buildings.
Hj Fadzil also told me that he does not get any financing from anywhere and it is all his effort and money.Anyhow,his shop did received a good response from the public.Many local and foreign visitors have bought many works from his shop cum gallery.
Apart from selling paintings ,his shop is also selling art materials like colours -oil,acrylic,water co;our- brushes, charcoals,papers etc are on sale.
For interested individuals,Hj Fadzil's gallery is named RATNA DINA ARIF GALLERY and located at the first floor,Yayasan Complex,Bandar Seri Begawan,Brunei Darussalam

Student's Art Exhibition at ICE Conference 2009, UBD

2009-05-21T22:22:00.000-07:00

In conjunction with the 14th International Conference In Education at Universiti Brunei Darussalam -21 to 24 May 2009, art students from the Undergraduate Programmes in Art Education held their art exhibition.This exhibition showcases their assignments which they have done this semester.
Response from the public and conference participants was very good.Most of the participants are teachers and educators.

PTE Katok Art Exhibition

2009-05-20T07:29:00.000-07:00

PTE(Pusat Tingkatan Enam) Katok held an art exhibition at the school on Tuesday and Wednesday(19 and 20 May 2009. Today(20 May 09) i visited the exhibition.lt was a good effort by the art teachers there to showcase what the students have being doing if they are taking art at the 'A' level exam.
l was briefed by Cikgu Othman on the process about what to expect from each student if they are to take art.Each student must take four components of artwork as required by the exam
board and in each component students are to show their process of research and study that leads to their final piece.l was impressed at the examples shown by Cikgu Othman.
What l have seen today is something that art teaching and learning have shifted from the previous practice where many of us experienced.Students now have to make references and study different ways of doing art and use of art materials.The emphasis on PROCESS have given us and the students that ART is not created merely on skills but also on thinking.The different levels of thinking was seen in this new approach..application,analysis and synthesis.
My congratulations to the art teachers at PTE Katok..Cikgu Othman,Cikgu Teo and Cikgu Faizal.

Drawing and Techniques Assignments

2009-05-09T21:52:00.001-07:00

Right now,all my students who are taking the Drawing Techniques course have submitted their assignments.Each student are required to submit five good drawings made from five different drawing media i.e pencils,pen,pencil colours,charcoal an pastel. In each of the drawing,assessment will be based on the exploitation of techniques of each material,the choice of subject matter,the application of art elements like colour,texture,form,lines and space.Creativity and originality of the work is also an important element in grading their works.
Overall, i noticed this first year SMP Art students are hardworking and talented.l am happy that everybody have shown their best.ln this post, l would like to show some of the works which have caught my attention.Well done to this students.We can see examples of drawings from five different drawing media.

Some interesting paintings at Labuan Show

2009-05-09T06:21:00.000-07:00

Two interesting works which l found at Labuan Art Show recently involves the use of 'new media'. The first one was done by using a 'Digital Media'.This is a good attempt by the artist Mrs Maureen.She has at least shown something different and something that can be exploited to become more contemporary in nature.As we are now living in digital age,this kind of art can be interesting.My hope to Mrs Maureen is that she can developed more skills,discover the hidden potential of the image software and look for more content that can arouse 'thinking' among viewers because artist are supposed to be a sensitive person in their surrounding.My congratulation to her as she did something different.
The second work was done by using airbrush.Although 'airbrush' is not very new technique,but the effect can be interesting.Airbrush technique can have a 'photo-like' effect.The works by Tony and Yusuf Awang Damit in this show is something to watch.Good work Tony and Yusuf.

More photos at Labuan Art Exhibition

2009-05-05T08:43:00.001-07:00

Our participation at Malaysia Water Festival Art Exhibition

2009-05-05T03:21:00.000-07:00

On the 3rd of May 2009,me and my friends from UBD travelled to Labuan to witness the opening ceremony of an art exhibition athe Water Sports Complex,Labuan.The exhibition,which carries the theme 'MARINE LIFE' is organised by the Labuan Visual Art Society,in conjunction with the Malaysia Water Festival celebration.Atisst from Labuan,Kota Kinabalu and Brunei took part in the exhibition.Three art lecturers and five art students from Universiti Brunei Darussalam participate in that exhibition.
The exhibition was officially opened by Prof. Madya Dr Najib, the Director General of National Art Gallery,Malaysia.After the opening ceremony,we were entertained for a lunch and a quick tour around Labuan lsland.

Art Exhibition at Malaysia Water Festival,Labuan

2009-04-30T16:34:00.000-07:00

On the 3rd May 2009,Labuan is hosting a Carnival in conjunction with Malaysia Water Festival.Labuan is a beautiful island in Malaysia.Many interesting events will take place during this carnival like Swimming Competition to a nearby island,Photography Competition,Kayak Competition and not to forget Art Exhibition.
Three art lecturers including myself and a few art students of Universiti Brunei Darussalam will participate in this art exhibition.The above photos are examples of the works which we have submitted.I will write more after visiting this carnival in my next post.Just wait,it will be interesting.

Assignments using Adobe Illustrator

2009-04-30T15:58:00.000-07:00

Its quite sometime that i haven't post any new input to this blog because of some busy schedule.My students are also busy at the moment finishing their assignments.From now on i will be receiving a lot of student's work as the deadline of submission will be ending soon.
In this post, i will try to put some examples of my student's work using Adobe Illustrator.I have given them some topics like 'potrait', human figures and 'current issues' to work on using Adobe Illustrator.After reveiewing some of their works,i discovered that most students did well in this assignment.Please see some of the examples here.(see photos).The above three photos shows examples of my student's works depicting an issue of GAZA WAR.

From 'Welder' to 'Traditional Art Souvenir' Entrepreneur

2009-04-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

What are you going to do after retirement?This is a question often asked by most or all retirees.Are we going to do something that is related to our former job?
Last Sunday (19 April 2009) as i was having a drink with my long-time friend,Zainal(the Batik Artist) at Yayasan Complex,Bandar Seri Begawan,Brunei,i was introduced to Hj Sabli Hj Omar from Lumut.Hj Sabli had already retired from his former job.He told me that he was trained as a welder and fitting job at Sekolah Pertukangan Shell Brunei in the year between 1965 and 1968.From there he was involved in almost every kind of metal and steel works including the construction of Shell Offshore projects.
Now, Hj Sabli is totally in a different area.He is no more fitting any metals but he is using his skills in handling tools to create small souvenirs made from wood.What initiates him to turn into something that has artistic value?I was informed that after he made some travel to Malaysia and Indonesia, he was impressed by the various kinds of souvenirs that tourist often buy and that has some identity from each country.Upon returning to Brunei,he started producing,small items from wood that resemble the country's traditional craft like the Keris, Gambus,Gasing,Congkak and Jumpong.
Now,Hj Sabli is in the process of marketing his products.He told me that his products have been tested in the market and the demand is good.His problem now is how to mass-produced the items.My friend Zainal is helping to promote Hj Sabli's works by making it more presentable like putting it in a better casing.
For lovers of souvenirs,Hj Sabli can be contacted by the number - 8734824 or email sabdan 131@yahoo.com

More drawings from my class

2009-04-22T08:04:00.000-07:00

As the semester is coming to an end,students are becoming more busier than before.For my drawing class,more examples of their assignments are coming up.As of today,more drawings by using pens are seen.My comments for them is that they have to make sure the use of the materials to its maximun,meaning that the range of effects of each material must be seen.If these effects are used,then the colours and shades of colours will come into effect.This will result in a better drawing as the effects will in turn show the forms of the objects.

Examples of student's work using Adobe Illustrator

2009-04-21T23:39:00.000-07:00

The above illustrations are examples of my student's work in the Graphic Design class.The student by the name of Shafiee in Sarjana Muda Pendidikan(Pend. Senilukis) Year 3,had given great attention to his work.His long hours of work by giving the correct shape,proportion and tonal differences had resulted in an impressive output.I will post more works later using Adobe Illustrator CS3.

My Drawing Techniques

2009-04-16T08:21:00.000-07:00

Actually i like drawing by using any materials like pencils,charcoals,pastel or pen.In order for anyone to draw well,he or she must know the qualities of the materials.Drawing materials are usually sharp-pointed.So any pointed materials will leave many kinds of line effects, either thin or thick.Drawing materials will also create tonal effects.By experimenting with these effects regularly, one will know how to control the materials.
Good drawings are the result of good observation.Usually, i did noticed that many students just simply draw without much attention to the objects.This will result either the object is not in it's proper shape and the details missing.
Good observation can also bring confidence to the artist and this will result in a better way of using the materials.

Hazwan's Drawing

2009-04-16T07:55:00.001-07:00

Mohd Hazwan is another good student in my drawing class.In the above photo,Hazwan is doing his drawing by using pencil colour.That idea came after the class made an outing visit to a recreation park in Brunei.Hazwan usually includes details in his drawings and his strokes is meaningful.
Perhaps,in one or two weeks time from now i will include more examples of student's drawings as they are supposed to submit it to me by the deadline aggreed.

The most expensive 'pottery' exhibited at Brunei Museum

2009-04-15T17:55:00.000-07:00

l was informed by the Brunei Museum's official that the most expensive item at the Japanese Pottery exhibition - 15th-29April 2009, is the above item(see photo).This piece costs more than USD 1 Million, and the insurance coverage is USD 2 Million.Accoring to the exhibition catalogue, this pot came from Kutani,located in Ishikawa prefecture,Japan.It is a kind of ceremonial vessel and it was developed using Ohi glaze.

Japanese Pottery Ehxibition at Muzium Brunei

2009-04-15T15:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday,15 April 2009, l went to the opening ceremony of the Japanese Pottery Exhibition at Muzium Brunei.The exhibition was organised by Japan Foundation in collaboration with Muzium Brunei.This exhibition showcases the works of prominent ceramic artists from Japan.We can see the different orientation of their works in pottery.This exhibition will last until the 29 April 2009 only.l think this is a good opportunity for art lovers to see how 'forms' are exploited in the art of pottery and the concept of traditional usage to becoming a contemporary art.

Drawing Techniques and Materials

2009-04-15T06:47:00.000-07:00

Drawing techniques and drawing materials or 'Bahan dan Teknik dalam Lukisan' is another subject offered in Sarjana Muda Pendidikan Senilukis at Universiti Brunei Darussalam.It is an elective subject.Students from other programmes are welcomed to take this subject.The focus of learning in this subject is about the usage of various drawing materials like pencils, pen, pastel, charcoal and colour pencils.Students will be introduced to the various techniques that can be utilised by using those drawing materials. At the later part of the course,students are encouraged to experiment and discover their own techniques.
One student which i noticed did possessed his own way of drawing is Rusdi(see photo).He has got his own way of using pencil and pen.But i have not seen his pastel work yet.In the above pictures, which shows his work, Rusdi likes to use his 'one way stroke' technique. We can see from the drawings, Rusdi is using this technique either by using pencil or pen.Can he use this technique by using pastel?
ln my coming post l will try to insert more drawings by other students because they will be finishing their assignments in one weeks time.

Google Sketch Up;A fantastic software

2009-04-12T05:18:00.000-07:00

Although this is not an architecture class but only a design class, the idea is just to familiarise the student that design ideas can be created in a professional way by the help of computer technology.As my project is about house design,students have to produce some sketches.We have found out that Google have come up with this Google Sketch Up software.The above images was made by one student by the name of IMING to show her ideas from a plan to the real image of a house.Well done Iming.You are good.

Design:Developments and Functions

2009-04-12T05:03:00.000-07:00

Design:Developments an Functions is a new subject in the B.Ed Art Program at Universiti Brunei Darussalam.The objectives of this subject are to promote awareness among students that design have certain impact on the quality of any objects created by human beings,that design can improve quality of life, that design can bring changes in our environment.
In this subjects ,students are to explore the many possibilities of applying good design concept to their work.In this semester, l did give them a major project entitled 'My Dream House'.This is a group project.Students have to come up with skethes of their work before making the model of their 'dream house'.l think this project did challenge their creative ideas especially in making their house plans using Google Sketch Up software.

More examples of students work.

2009-04-12T04:53:00.001-07:00

These are examples of the batik work done by a second year students.

2009-04-12T04:47:00.000-07:00

Here we can see another student by the name of Syifa.Her works are based on the shapes of flowers.l did found out that students like batik painting after they have experienced the skills.

2009-04-12T04:40:00.000-07:00

This is Tiqah.Her works are based on the exploration of geometrical shapes as the motifs of her batik.Here she is seen applying the colour with a brush.The shapes are arranged in such a way that it looks like flowing from one edge of the cloth.

More on Batik Painting

2009-04-12T04:20:00.000-07:00

Today,the day i am writing is Sunday-12 April 2009.For the past few days i was terribbly busy,visiting students doing their teaching practice in schools,having my classes,supervising the final year students about their research and studio project.Although it is Sunday,i still come to the campus to finish my writing of exam papers,new course outlines for next semester and preparing budget for art group.As i walked in the art studio,i saw many students doing their work.l really like this situation,This is what l expect from students who are taking art at higher institutions.They must follow this habit of doing work although it is on Sunday.They must not wait for lecturers to be around to finish their work.
What l saw today are students from the Bachelor of Education(Art),second year,doing their batik painting.In the picture above is Yuli.He is trying to refine his batik work by using a big brush.
Yuli did combine many layers of colour on his batik and the effect is good.

Using Photoshop

2009-04-07T04:22:00.001-07:00

Photoshop is a fantastic software for image editing.Images can be drawn and edited.Images can come from the photographs taken and loaded in our computer.By using 'filter' menu,these images can be manipulated into whatever conditions that we want.For a start,l have shown here a photograph taken at Bandar Seri Begawan,Brunei.l would like to make a watercolour painting of this view.By using Photoshop software and the menu 'filter' - 'watercolour', l can adjust to see what colour and which area in my painting if l were to use the real watercolour on paper.ln this context, photoshop can be seen as a helping tool.lf not the ajusted and modified image is an art by itself which we will fall under the category of 'DIGITAL ART'. l will post more examples of digital art in my coming post.

2009-04-05T04:12:00.000-07:00

Everybody in the class are working hard to finished their project.An example of a Graphic Design class.

2009-04-05T04:09:00.000-07:00

A computer illustration project in progress.

2009-04-05T04:03:00.001-07:00

Another student Shafiee struggling to do an illustration of the face of his friend.This is in a Graphic class.

Art &New Media, Computer Illustration,Graphic Design at UBD

2009-04-05T03:47:00.001-07:00

Among the subjects offered in the B.Ed Art and Sarjana Muda Pendidikan Senilukis at Universiti Brunei Darussalam are Graphic Design, Art and New Media.Students taking this course will experience the basic of Graphics and its uses in the publishing and communication industry.For the New Media Art,photograpy is includes,editing of photography using photo-editing software,computer illustration and other special effects images.l found out that many students loved this subject.It is also offered as an elective subjects to non- art students.l will put examples of the finished work soon.Although we dont have a special computer lab for art students,,we managed to do the lesson using student's own laptop.

2009-04-05T03:37:00.000-07:00

Another good work by Sofie

2009-04-05T03:31:00.000-07:00

This batik was done by Sofie or Sofia Jane as l called her.Her works are good and she has the passion to do this.l discovered that not all students are good in all kinds of art.If they are good in painting or drawing, they may not be the same in graphics or batik.

Batik works from B.Ed Art and SMP students

2009-04-05T03:24:00.000-07:00

This semester also saw many good works in Batik done by In-Serevice students and Pre-Service Students.The following photo are some of the works that have been completed.l will put the photos of the students concerned in the coming post.

2009-04-05T03:18:00.000-07:00

Myself,Rusdi,Khairi and other students on an outing at Bandar Seri Begawan,Brunei.

2009-04-05T03:09:00.000-07:00

This is Rusdi,,the student who did the painting below.Here he is seen posing with one of his classmate,Dina.Rusdi is quite aq shy guy,but talented and have a good leadership quality.i will post more of Rusdi's work later.

Semester 11 Art Works from SHBIE,UBD

2009-04-05T02:59:00.000-07:00

This painting was done by Rusdi,a first year Sarjana Muda Pendidikan(Art).He is using oil paint as part of his assignment.The subject was based on his experience travelling to Kuala Belalong in Temburong,Brunei.It was well done and there is an evidence of great effort to finish this painting.

2009-04-05T02:55:00.000-07:00

2009-04-05T02:50:00.000-07:00

2009-04-05T02:47:00.000-07:00

2009-04-05T02:44:00.000-07:00

Labuan artists visiting Brunei

2009-04-05T02:07:00.000-07:00

On the 28th March, three artists from Labuan,Azizi,Tony and Sani came over to have a visit and explore some art activities here.They are all members from Persatuan Seni Visual Labuan.Their mission is to invite artists from Brunei to participate in the upcoming art exhibitions in Labuan i.e on the 11th of April 2009 and 29th April 2009.For the 29th April exhibition,the theme will be on marine life.Interested artists are to submit their works much earlier.The contact person in Brunei are Hj Baharudin and myself Khalid from Universiti Brunei Darussalam.My tel. no is 8798240.

Blog Latihan Mengajar SHBIE

2009-03-08T03:03:00.000-07:00

http://shbietp.wordpress.com

2009-01-29T07:33:00.000-08:00

From Figure Drawing class

2009-01-29T07:31:00.001-08:00

Figure Drawing

2009-01-29T07:19:00.000-08:00

Figure drawing is an interesting subject to study.Infact figure drawing is difficult.lf anyone can acquire the skill of drawing figure,then he can be a good artist.This is because one have to know the internal human structure before making the outer image.Today-29.1.09,l tried to introduce figure drawing in my SMP class.The students seems to enjoy the activities.Some of the works are shown here.

Seni Media Baru

2009-01-29T07:02:00.000-08:00

Today-29.1.09,i discovered several interesting and good works from my students in Seni Media Baru class.One example is shown above.This was done by Yuli,from B.Ed Art class.This is what i expect from the class.They must try to explore the vast possibbilities that Photoshop can do to create a good illustration.In this illustration,Yuli have shown how he managed to colour the form of the coconut by using the brush tool.Yuli did combine the foreground object and the background scene in a clever wayWell done.

Beberapa scene dari Kelas Lukisan SMP

2009-01-23T05:53:00.000-08:00

Hooo...sebelum melukis,penuntut-penuntut ni sibuk ambil gambar.Nanti kalau buah hilang ,gambarnya sudah ada.

2009-01-23T05:49:00.000-08:00

2009-01-23T05:47:00.000-08:00

2009-01-23T05:45:00.000-08:00

2009-01-23T05:42:00.000-08:00

2009-01-23T05:39:00.000-08:00

2009-01-23T05:34:00.000-08:00

Baru nak start ke?Tak nampak pun lagi buah kelapa atau pisang.Lagi dua orang penuntut SMP.
Sorang lukis dengan tangan kanan dan sorang tangan kiri.

2009-01-23T05:25:00.000-08:00

Hoooooo......punya le kyusuk diaorang ni melukis sampai tak pandang depan le.Tiga orang penuntut SMP Th 1 sedang melukis.Namanya sapa ya.....Siti Muthiah, Ampuan(Nathalie....kekeke,Thailand pun boleh) and Farahana or Far-farfarar- away).Jgn marah.

2009-01-23T05:18:00.000-08:00

Pemandangan dari satu sudut kelas Bahan & Teknik dlm lukisan-kelas SMP Tahun 1 -2009.

2009-01-23T05:13:00.000-08:00

Ini contoh lukisan dari susunan buah-buahan.Perhatikan cara penggunaan pensil.

2009-01-23T04:57:00.000-08:00

Ini adalah 'objek' pertama dalam kelas 'Bahan dan Teknik dalam Lukisan'.Perhatikan susunan dan kesan cahaya pada objek berkenaan.Penuntut dikehendaki melukis 'objek' berkenaan dan kemudian menggunakan pensil dari berbagai gred untuk mendapatkan 'ton' yang menunjukkan bentuk buah-buah yang dilukis.Sebelum ini,penuntut telah membuat beberapa latihan mengenai teknik penggunaan pensil dalam lukisan.

The beginning of 'Bahan & Teknik Lukisan' class

2009-01-13T23:58:00.000-08:00

Today-14 Jan 2008 is the beginning of the the SMP -Bahan dan Teknik dalam Lukisan.The students were asked to experiment on the possibbilities of each grade of the pencils.The first one hour is mostly about what pencils can do,what kind of tones that a pencil can create and also the different kinds of lines.l found out that most of the students did well in this session except for a few who is a little bit slow.Maybe 'mood masih belum ada lepas cuti'.
The second hour is applying the skills in drawing their own hand.Students were asked to show 'how lines can create form' and 'tones to create forms'.Some students have shown good examples of what l mean by 'expression through lines and tones in making a good drawing.Overall,students enjoy the class.l will put examples of students work in my next post.

Sketch 1-Kuala Belalong Research Centre

2008-12-23T06:28:00.000-08:00

This is a pencil sketch of the place where we stay during our trip to Belalong.It is just a rough sketch.l tried to capture the shape of the building by using various kinds of lines.l like to do it this way because l believe lines have a great expressive value if we use it in a correct way.
A sketch doesn't have to be really finish.l like doing the 'not so finish' sketch because l feel it is better looking.Tomorrow l will continue to work on this sketch

Bahan dan Teknik Lukisan

2008-12-23T03:03:00.000-08:00

To my students who are going to take Bahan dan Teknik Lukisan in the next semester -:
Please understand that this course is about exploring the different drawing materials and the various techniques in using these materials to create a good drawing.
Drawing is basic in any process of creating an artwork.lf we are going to do a painting we must be able to sketch and draw our series of ideas.Good ideas can be developed through these series of drawing ability.lt is only through drawing that artist and designers put their first thinking and later become a masterpiece.So what is a good drawing? How do we acquire the skills to draw well?Must we have the talent to draw?Can drawing be learnt?These are questions that come to everbody's mind about the learning of drawing.
There are many definitions about what drawing is.There are many books on how to draw.Yet after reading these books we still cannot draw.We sometimes feel frustrated that we cannot reach the level of expertise as shown in the book.Yes, l agree.Looking at books alone cannot bring us anywhere.But looking at books can give us many ideas because books are supposed to be references.So in any attempt to create good and creative artworks,don' forget about books and other references.
l myself admire people who can draw.Afters years of involvement in art, l come to a conclusion that a good drawing is a result of many things from oneself.First, one must be able to see things in a correct manner.Second,one must be selective about what to draw.Third,one must identify what drawing materials suits them best.The last one,which l think is ver important,is to developed one's own style of drawing.
Drawing needs practice.Drawing demands a great level of patience.A good drawing is considered a good piece of art.So, don' take a short cut to produce any assignments in this course.

2008-12-22T20:04:00.000-08:00

This is the hard and soft pastel which l used in my drawings.The colours are ver bright.The hard pastel(small box) is more expensive than the soft pastel(big box).For a twelve pieces of hard pastel,it cost me RM39 whereas for a 36 pieces of soft pastel,it cost me RM35.Hard pastel is good for making potraits and figure drawings.

My second drawing on the journey to Kuala Belalong

2008-12-22T19:54:00.000-08:00

This is my second attempt to draw about the situation during the journey to Kuala Belalong in Temburong.The boat is small, the river is very fast flowing.All along the river we can see jungles,big trees,small trees.Its difficult to draw each and every trees but what l did in this drawing is to catch the variations of colour in the environment.By using pastel l can finish my work quickly because l have some other things to do also.

My comments on last semester assignments

2008-12-22T16:26:00.000-08:00

When l woke up today(23 Dec 2008), l tried to remember back what l was doing during the teaching period of last semester(May - Nov 2008).l know by now all my students are enjoying their semester holidays until 10 of January 2009.Remember we are going to meet again on the 12 of January 2009.A few students sometimes forgot or just don't want to know the date of the new semester.l have this experience of informing students why they are still not around after a few weeks of the new semester.But of course not many in this category.
During the last semester, l am experiencing a heavy workload.l think this is the most heavy since working at UBD.l have to handle eleven courses.l just wonder how l managed to squeeze my teaching time in the time-table.To my students, please don't expect wonderful things from me.There are many students and l just cannot please everyone of you.We are learning under many constraints -classroom space,lack of resources and awkward time table.There are also new subjects coming in -SENI KREATIF and TEACHING OF ART AND DESIGN.
l noticed that although we are facing many difficulties,students are still happy.Many are seen working very hard to meet the dead lines of assignment's submissions.l know you are eager to know about your exam results by now.For me, it is always not an easy task when the time comes to give your grades.
My advice to you fellow students is understand the objectives of each course being offered and how you are going to be assess.ls it just your levels of skills,your ability to understand and interpret,your will to explore more and your presentaion as a whole?lf you don't present more you are sure to get less reward.

My first drawing in this diary

2008-12-22T06:42:00.000-08:00

This is my first drawing based on the scene of the Belalong Trip in early December 2008.lt is still at a preliminary stage where l tried combining soft and hard pastel.l hope participants during the trip will by now start making their own art piece,either a drawing,painting or even new media art(in this case art using edited photographs).New Media Art can be more than this.Remember we must prepare our work for the planned exhibition during the new semester of 2009.
There are three kinds of pastel which l like to use i.e oil pastel,soft pastel and hard pastel.l found out that these three kinds of pastel needs different ways of handling it and aslo it gives three different effects.Oil pastel is more sticky and does not leave any powder like waste on the paper.Our hands can be more clean if we use oil pastel.The colour blending process is also different within these three types of pastel.Soft and hard pastel is quite easy to use,smooth flow and easy to blend but of course too powdery.Where price is concern,hard pastel is the most expensive.

Why l choose 'diariseni'?

2008-12-22T05:38:00.000-08:00

The year 2008 has come to an end.Whenever a new year is coming,people start looking for a new diary.So am l.Today,the day l am writing, is 22nd of December 2008.l have already bought 3 pocket diaries.One for my wife.one for my son which l send it to Japan and one for me.Usually, l am only active writing and using this personal diary for a few months or perhaps a few weeks in the new year.Sometimes l use it for other purposes like writing things that are not supposed to be in a diary or just make a sketch of something l like to see.
During the December 2008 vacation in Kuala Lumpur, l start thinking of transforming the concept of personal diary into intra personal diary,that is something which is accessible to other person.But of course,things that l am going to write is no more too personal but useful to others as well.The subject in my 'intra personal' diary will mostly focus on art, art education,art events and art knowledge.That 'intra personal' diary of mine is this blog.l hope it can be meaningful to my friends, my students and also myself.