The sculptural form of the Orang Asli
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Date
2009
Authors
Mohd Arus, Baharudin
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Abstract
This thesis explores the importance of indigenous art and sculpture of the Mah Meri of Carey Island,Malaysia, which have been marginalized from the majority of the population due to the misconception and prejudice of indigenous art being considered as trivial and not serious enough to be recognized as proper ‘’Art”.
The indigenous tribes of Peninsular Malaysia make up 0.1% of the total population of Malaysia. They existed before the arrival of the other races in Malaysia, including the Malays. Being the earliest settlers and as the first people of the land their survival through the test of time has proven their credibility. Yet the general public in Malaysia has almost forgotten their importance. This is due to the lack of exposure of their rich art and culture. One of the tribes noted for their skill and creativity in their wood-carving is the Mah Meri. This group of people lives on an island off the coast of Selangor called Pulau Carey. The Mah Meri are a sub-group of the Senoi community from the central Peninsula of Malaysia. They create wooden figure sculptures and masks to be used for the purposes of social and therapeutic rituals.
This study also aims to investigate the meaning, symbols and aesthetic responses of the sculpture as well as to emphasize the importance of material culture in relation to contemporary society. This study and structured analysis, aims to determine the position of Orang Asli sculpture and arts in the mainstream of modern contemporary art. An examination of the creative process of the individual sculptors in relation to their myths, rituals and environment is designed to explore the mystical power of the tribal creativity and innovation. In order to guide this study, data were collected through several methods, such as observations, interview sessions, SPSS analysis and collected samples of artworks and oral myths.
The ultimate objective of this study is to benefit the indigenous people who deserve long over-due recognition of their neglected art and material culture. It will also encourage future researchers to further elevate and establish the importance of the study of the art and culture of the indigenous peoples. The thesis without doubt will also discover the presence and strength of creativity in Mah Meri art and culture. They have been able to produce a new form of sculpture which is directly relevant to the concept of sustainable culture in the present globalized society.
In lieu of current interest this study will inspire future researchers to explore new potential in the indigenous art and culture which will eventually be accepted into the mainstream of the Malaysian art world.
Description
PhD
Keywords
Art , Sculptural form , Orang Asli