Architect by Training, Sculptor by ChoiceKLIA Times magazine: interview 2007 by NOR HUSNA KHALID
Abdul Multhalib Musa introduces the mathematics of fine art to
NOR HUSNA KHALID
Published in KLIA Times, January 2007 issue, pp 5.
In the Malaysian art circle, Abdul Multhalib Musa is reputedly the only active sculptor in the country. But that is hardly surprising because sculpting is what he has chosen to do full time, although by right it should have been architecture. “The best thing in life is to be able to make a living from doing what you like doing,” said this Penang-born artist whose passion has earned him invitations to participate in international shows in Australia, Japan, Singapore and Europe.
Multhalib could well be holding down a job as an architect, having graduated in 1998 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Design Studies (Architecture) from the University of Adelaide, Australia and in 2000, a Bachelor of Architecture (Honours) from MARA University of Technology, Shah Alam, Malaysia. But, as he says, “I would be doing art and art related stuff, even if I were working as an architect... or in any other profession for that matter.” His years of training in architecture have however not entirely gone to waste. Indeed, his pieces – often large, sleek and geometric in shape and form – exemplify the mathematics of fine art, and the fine art that is mathematics. In addition, Multhalib distinguishes himself from other sculptors in respect of his methods and approach to his art.
He designs all of his sculptures, made from laser-cut or water-cut steel, on the computer. A team of builders then takes over to “execute the plan” – yes, just like how a building is erected. “I supervise and give instructions on each piece to my team. It also involves continuous consultations with the ‘engineers’,” he explained. According to Multhalib, every detail is meticulously worked out well before implementation, down to the selection of materials (steel mostly), their handling and amounts required, and the tools needed for the job. “I would send the steel along with my designs and measurements to a steel cutter. When the cut pieces come back, my team gets to work on the welding, and when that is done, the ‘polishing’.”
Most of his sculptures have the rusty, weather-beaten look, with the “eroded” effect being achieved by spraying salt water on them. He also sometimes incorporates shiny steel for contrast and to enhance the illusion of depth. “The eroded effect has a strong pull. In fact, many people prefer the rusty look to the polished one. They say the rusty colours give the pieces an antique look,” Multhalib said. Some art fans have even mistakenly thought his sculptures were all made of wood when only a few pieces are actually so. Why not sculpt more in wood? “Steel is more suitable to my style, I can bend and shape them better.
In addition, working with wood can be quite wasteful. I have to buy them in stacks but will end up using only a small amount... they get damaged or have cracks and have to be thrown away,” he said. “It’s bad enough that hundreds or thousands of trees are cut down for timber every day. Steel is recyclable, so I’ll keep on using that.” As for other materials, Multhalib is eyeing metals like pewter, copper, brass and aluminium for use in future projects. “Each metal will have a different effect. I am in negotiations with various suppliers. We’ll see how this turns out.”
For now, Multhalib said, demand for his work is good. “But maybe a time will come when there is no more market for my work. Still I will probably continue to do it, although obviously if I can’t make a living out of it I wouldhave to get a job... maybe become an architect,” he grinned. But, he points out, one should always choose to do what gives one more creative freedom.
