Stages of re-conceptualizing the Sarimanok in my representation of the image in my paintings
A)
The most accepted cannon is that of Abdulmari Imao, but the problem is that is
that it does use Okir but it does not really accentuate the cultural and true
significance of why it is such. Then weakness of his design is that it is at
times too simplistic compared to Southeast
asian representations of it. The images are 2-d and they do not expand on the
possibilities of the space he uses. It is that which spurs me to create a
design that incorporates the different aspects of different okir forms and
exploiting the space and background to create a new and dynamic form for it.
B) My research in Asian art has made me realize that repetition of forms
in a given space is an aspect of the religious edifices and other forms of
asian art. Notably if you look at Okir there is a rhythm and repeating of
objects which lacks randomness in its design.
C) Okir is sequential and gradual in it is use of the lines and form as
they evolve in the image of the Sarimanok. This is the most significant aspect
of the sarimanok which escapes most artists in my view and it is treated as
just a "design", and important aspects of the Okir is ignored which
leaves out the general significance of repetition and graduation of it's
elements.
D) The Sarimanok is not a mere image for artistic license, but it is
representative of the many asian artisans and cultural visionaries who have
integrated it from local mythologies and cultural beginning which bear
significance in the aspects of "CULTURE". Hence, my personal stress
on getting designs that are still the same images but integrating aspects of
modernity in the depiction of the Sarimanok but still keeping accepted cultural
aspects.
E) I think there is room for more inputs into how we can improve on the
image of the Sarimanok that is more grounded and based on older sources like
the Okir carving and paintings which is more factual though dated. Maybe, one
could counter the older designs is anachronistic but still it is the basis
for updating the design.
F) Modernism, Formalism and Post-modernism can perhaps interpret the
Sarimanok works of Abdulmari Imao, but it the finality it ignores the sources
which is the artisans had a regard that the Sarimanok is a sacred icon the has
many aspects in it's design. Okir is based on the old world of our cultural
past of society and mythology.
