Masturah Sha’ari (b. 1969, Singapore) started painting seriously in 2016, though she has been drawing since young, even winning a few neighbourhood children’s art competitions. She paints mostly abstracts, including abstract landscapes, using soft gestures and colourful strokes of acrylic on canvas. She has exhibited her works in Singapore and Malaysia. With a background in Asian art histories, economics, Malay studies and design communication, Masturah also volunteers and serves as a member of several art societies in Singapore. As co-founder of Maya Gallery, she has mentored female university students and spoken at museums and various organisations.
Masturah holds an MA in Asian Art Histories from Goldsmiths University of London/LASALLE College of the Arts, a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Malay Studies, from National University of Singapore (NUS), and a Diploma in Design Communication from LASALLE College of the Arts. Her research interests foreground the collective endeavours of Malay artists in post-war Singapore. Masturah is the Vice-President of Angkatan Pelukis Aneka Daya (APAD), and was Chairperson for Voices & Visions: Singapore Women Artists Exhibition 2021, organised by the Federation of Art Societies Singapore (FASS), at the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre (SCCC). She has also been a mentor to female undergraduates at NUS. Her commitment to the arts is evident through her numerous accomplishments, including curating exhibitions, designing exhibition catalogues and award-winning books.
My abstract artwork serves as a medium for me to explore the concept of freedom and space, allowing me to express my deepest emotions. Through my abstract landscape series, I aim to capture the tranquil, serene atmosphere of a paradise-like green space. As a mother, I see “home” as a sanctuary—a place where my children can always feel safe, and where they can return to, no matter where life takes them.
Huu Nghi: Singapore & Vietnam 50-10 Exhibition
“My abstract paintings capture the blooms of Hanoi's spring and inspirations drawn from trips to Vietnam’s waterscapes. Beyond landscapes, they're the beating heart of communities for generations. The Red River tells tales of resilience; Hoan Kiem Lake of magic, and Halong Bay of ancient legends and timeless beauty. Hoi An's rivers embody the spirit of trade, and Nim Binh’s waterway weaves through rice paddies and temples. These waters echo the relationship between man and environment. The artworks harmonise to articulate narratives of mutual cooperation and cultural exchange, reminding us of Vietnam and Singapore’s partnership. The strokes, both fluid and deliberate, mirror the rhythm of our diplomatic relations, inviting viewers to contemplate on the journey we traverse together, our shared history and blossoming aspirations.”
