Teen embraces heritage through art
Splash of culture and colours: Danya Adriana is getting known among local art activists as a young painter who produces abstract works inspired by Malay cultural elements – a fresh approach that combines heritage elements with modern techniques. — Bernama
SEMENYIH: While many of her peers are immersed in the digital world and modern entertainment, a student in Kajang has opted for canvas and colour to express herself and explore her cultural roots.
And at just 17, Danya Adriana Feri Pito Manda is already making a mark in the local art scene for infusing abstract art with rich Malay culture, presenting a refreshing blend of tradition and contemporary style.
Danya Adriana's love for art began early. Encouraged by her family, her passion took shape at the age of 12 when she enrolled in art competitions and workshops.
'My family, mainly my mother, has always supported me. That unwavering encouragement is what drives me to keep creating,' she said in an interview with Bernama.
Choosing abstract art as her main medium, Danya Adriana has experimented with texture, layers and colours inspired by nature.
Shades of blue and green – symbols of calm and connection with the natural world – dominate her work.
For Danya Adriana, the abstract style offers freedom – a way to express emotions and ideas without being confined to realistic forms.
At the same time, her paintings celebrate Malay cultural heritage through subtle motifs and imagery.
'I'm especially drawn to traditional Malay designs like the patterns on wau (traditional kites), batik and the elegance of old Malay architecture. Malaysia's rich flora and fauna also inspire me.
'These elements are woven into my work through a modern abstract approach,' she added.
Though yet to pursue formal art training, the SM Khir Johari student continues to take her craft seriously.
She brushed aside negative perceptions about young artists, choosing instead to focus on her growth.
Danya Adriana's talent has gained recognition since she joined Galeri Art Market Malaysia, a platform that showcases emerging artists to a wider audience, five years ago.
Last year, corporate giants YTL Group and Marriott International commissioned her to produce three large-scale pieces for the interiors of the newly-opened Moxy Hotel Kuala Lumpur Chinatown – a project she completed earlier this year.
Her work can also be found at several branches of Hospital Aurelius in Nilai, Pahang, and Kedah.
An admirer of surrealist icon Salvador Dali and Malaysian children's book illustrator Yusof Gajah, Danya Adriana is balancing her artistic journey as she prepares for this year's Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia exam.
She also dreams of opening her own art studio one day.
'I want it to be a platform for education so that more people can explore art in depth.
'I also hope to merge art with economics and business, helping young artists become more independent and professional,' she said.
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