JakartaGlobe-May 9

Artist Mujahidin Nurrahman uses his art to explore the contradictions and paradoxes of Islam. The acrylic paper twisted, woven and turned, its multicolored hues and delicate, intricate shape seamlessly changing in an unending, organic manner. Titled “Twisted Infinity” it evokes fine Japanese washi paper and Islamic prayer wall art. The overall effect seems to flow and move to its beat, in line with the name of the Ritme (Rhythm) Islamic art exhibition.  “The [Ritme] exhibition seeks to explore the concept of rhythm, its connection to the natural world, and its impact on our emotions and spiritual well-being,” said the curatorial for Ritme, which shows Mujahidin’s work alongside those of fellow artists AD Pirous, A. Sebastianus, Dian Mayang Sari and others in its run at the World Trade Center building in Jakarta until June 9. “The artworks in the exhibition are curated based on their exploration of time, space, patterns and spirituality […] and offer insights into how rhythm can create a deeper sense of meaning and connection.” Observing contradictions While the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) alumnus in printmaking reiterates the symmetry and rhyme in “Twisted Infinity”, he asserts that the mixed media piece is his way of “tracing the theme of religions [specifically Islam] in the development of my work. I first thought of making [“Twisted Infinity”] in 2009 or 2010, when I explored the negative side of Islam, such as radicalism, terrorism, and even my name and its radical connotations,” Mujahidin said in an email to The Jakarta Post on April 20. Read more at: https://www.thejakartapost.com/paper/2023/05/09/an-artistic-exploration-of-islamic-paradoxes.html