The symmetry analysis in Sulaiman Esa paintings through Islamic art concept

• Main Authors: Marzuki, Ibrahim, Wan Soliana, Wan Md Zain, Rushana, Sulaiman, Noor Hafiza, Ghazali
• Format: Conference or Workshop Item
• Language: English; English
• Published: 2021
• Subjects: N Visual arts (General) For photography, see TR; ND Painting; NX Arts in general
• Online Access: http://eprints.unisza.edu.my/4814/1/FH03-FRIT-20-49447.pdf; http://eprints.unisza.edu.my/4814/2/FH03-FRIT-21-55042.pdf; http://eprints.unisza.edu.my/4814/
• Institution: Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin

This study aims to identify the mathematical concept evident in the paintings entitled 'Mahsuri II' (1983) by Sulaiman Esa through symmetry analysis. The objective of this study is to do research on the factors connecting art appreciation aspects by describing the concept of symmetry that exist trough the beauty of pattern design in paintings that exhibits Islamic art images. This study involves creative analysis through a qualitative approach with descriptive inter-disciplinary implementation. Symmetric feature research is performed to classify the pattern design of paintings through the process of symmetry involving repetition. The collection of written and visual data was performed by means of documentation, visual recording, and observation methods to obtain information on the subject, design and meaning of the artwork studied. The research uncovered that aesthetical beauty value in Islamic art images that is defined through mathematical expression became the underlying element in paintings design that applies symmetric pattern design concept. It is not an exaggeration to say that symmetry is the basic principle that has long been a hidden structure underpinning the best works of art ever produced in the history of Islamic art. Research has reported that painting can be seen not only from the art's formalistic point of view, but also from the ethnomathematical angle, through the application of symmetrical features in the production of artworks. This study presents some of the ethnomathematical and Malay-Muslims discussions in its vast research. This is an implicit innovation element present in every thought of society. Efforts to enrich the scope of probable new possibilities in the field of painting are very meaningful and beneficial for today's and future generations.