LOT 53
YUSOF GHANI
B. Johor, 1950
Siri Biring III, circa 2008
Mixed media on canvas
49.5 x 39.5 cm
Private Collection, Kuala Lumpur
Signed “Yusoff Ghani” on lower right
RM 18,000 – 25,000
Yusof Ghani’s ‘Biring’ series strays away from his other series that feature the human form, masks and nature. His most coveted works are from the rare, ‘Protest’ series while the artists’ most recognised and collected artworks are part of the ‘Tari’ series. The ‘Biring’ series is the artist’s rendition of a cock-fight, symbolising the heroism and strife between mankind. The use of vibrant hues and expressive brush strokes makes it an inundating artwork. Instead of Yusof’s usual vibrant colours of blue, he employed an earthy palette with this work, paired with Yusof’s innate prowess, he creates swirls of colours that finally take the form of roosters at the centre of the artwork. The roosters depicted in his painting seem to be in motion, wings flapping about as they fight for their lives. Biring’ is definitely one of Yusof Ghani’s most enlightened body of works, for not only have the works been painted with wild abandon and freedom, but more importantly demonstrate the artist’s ability to leave the comfort of the familiar.