Born 1984 in Penang, Malaysia
Pop Surrealism is the visual conduit used by emerging artist Ruzzeki Harris to communicate his observations and express his angst concerning the world around him. Whether touching on events and issues that are more localized to Malaysia, or broader global phenomena, the raw visceral imagery utilized in his works resonates with viewers universally.
Inspired by surrealist greats such as Salvador Dali and René Margritte, the figurative style employed by this artist is quite distinct, and no holds are barred when conveying a message. Ruzzeki’s works speak directly to the viewer, without the need for feigned niceties, capturing what artist himself describes as the “raw emotion of the street” (as stated in the introduction to his 3rd solo exhibition Point Blank).
Ruzzeki pointedly critiques the many idiosyncrasies he observes using of raw pop culture iconographies and symbolisms, and their strategic surreal utilization within his works. Politics, governance, and social behavior are among the many contemporary subjects that he addresses in his art.
His more recent works are a confluence of artistic skill, a dark sense of humor, and expressions of concern by an individual well aware and who possesses a potent dose of healthy cynicism.
As an artistic voice of his generation, Ruzzeki feels almost duty-bound to express his disquiet through his art, particularly with issues that affect him, either directly or indirectly. While some of the idiosyncrasies portrayed may be uniquely Malaysian in nature, much of the criticism involves behaviors that are universal.
