An artist dances from doodles to unconventional art
Like a symphony played on the canvas of everyday materials, the art of handicraft is a celebration of the human touch.
Its boundless ingenuity transforms raw elements into objects of beauty – and peculiarity.
A dance of passion and precision, artisans wield their tools with a blend of expertise and emotion to give life to the ordinary, and breathe soul into the mundane.
Every stitch, carve and stroke often tells a story, either of culture, tradition, or just pure individuality.
Handcrafting pieces, for many, is not merely an aesthetic endeavour, but of a profound journey that beckons one to explore the depths of human creativity and to unfold that extraordinary type of magic when hands and heart collaborate in that dance of artistic expression.
Peculiarly artistic hands
Immersed in a passionate affair with the world of art, Bachelor in Arts and Social Science undergraduate from one of the universities in the Sultanate, 22-year-old Azra has become enamoured with the creation of uniquely unconventional handmade treasures.
Her artistic passage unfolds on the canvas of her Instagram account, @peculiarcrafts.bn, a digital gallery born just at the cusp of November this year, where every post whisper tales of creativity, rebellion, and the boundless allure of the peculiar in each craft she’s made.
“Art has always captivated my interest, particularly in handcrafted creations.
“My fascination extends to the modernised, where traditional forms of the batik undergo a reimagining, a metamorphosing into other unique pieces,” explained the artist via a text interview with the Bulletin.
Azra feels that it is the peculiar charm of what some might label as “strange” art that truly resonates with her – an appreciation for the unconventional, for pieces not universally adored, but possessing a uniqueness that begs for a place to call home.
When discussing how her endeavour towards the arts began, the 22-year-old said that it began with simple doodles that eventually evolved into the digital aspects where her creativity found expression through drawings on her iPad. However, buoyed by the evolving art scene in the country and the unwavering support of her friends, Azra summoned the courage to give it a shot.
“As my skills blossomed, I ventured into crafting posters and menu designs, offering a personalised touch to friends with small local business. Initially, I doubted the feasibility of pursuing my passion, given the limited exposure of art in Brunei.”
Inspirations in strangeness
Emerging as a mere seed of an idea in the midst of conversations with her partner, Azra shared that his persuasion convinced her to take the plunge into channelling her artistic expression in diverse ways – drawing intricate art and crafting odd-shaped air-dry clay wonders with Peculiar Crafts.
“Before this venture, I had casually crafted pieces as heartfelt gifts for close friends, never imagining it would evolve into a business.
“For me, the essence of strange and peculiar objects lies in the belief that ‘everything has a home’.”
The university student believes that unique and odd items inject life into simple spaces, providing a focal point worth lingering over.
“I’ve always held the mantra that if something captures people’s attention, it’s worth making it worthy of their gaze.”
Her creative muse? Much like many artists in the digital 21st Century, it finds residence in social media, ideas from friends, and the transformation of everyday objects into delightful weirdness, and as a self-taught artisan, Azra has navigated the world of creativity through online tutorials, shaping these unconventional wonders with the versatility of the air-dry clay medium.
Trusting the craft
The most significant hurdle to her creative journey, however, has undoubtedly revolved around cultivating trust in both herself and the artistic process.
“Initially plagued by self-doubt, I lacked confidence in my abilities and questioned the viability of launching my business, especially in the face of sceptics.”
She added that turning the tide required a fundamental shift in mindset – a conscious decision to set goals, believe in her capabilities, and silence the doubting voices.
“Embracing a mindset of continual improvement, I learned to view mistakes not as setbacks, but as opportunities to grow.”
Azra went on to say that adapting and refining techniques and materials became integral to the journey, as did the willingness to take calculated risks.
In the month leading up to its inception, Azra immersed herself in dedicated practice, honing skills in clay craftsmanship and painting – an uncharted territory for her – and while her journey thus far has been proof to overcoming challenges,
she acknowledges that the path of learning is perpetual, and she eagerly anticipates each new day as an opportunity for growth and discovery.
While the business serves as her side income while she undergoes her Bachelor’s degree, Azra believes that it has become a conduit for expanding the horizons of her creativity and honing her skills.
“Stepping out of my comfort zone, each creation at my table becomes a lesson, a joyous exploration into the art of adding a touch of the peculiar to the normal.” – Izah Azahari
