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I’m Maziyah Yussof, a multidisciplinary artist and educator based in Brunei Darussalam. My creative practice explores themes of identity, nature, and spirituality, often drawing from the rich visual language of Islamic art and Bruneian heritage. I work primarily in painting, illustration, and pattern-making—integrating geometric forms, traditional motifs, and personal symbolism to reflect on memory, belonging, and the quiet beauty of everyday life.
Deeply inspired by the lush landscapes of my homeland and my experiences as a mother, my work is rooted in a love for patterns—both man-made and found in nature. I’m especially drawn to how repetition, symmetry, and rhythm can offer not only visual harmony but also a sense of meditative and spiritual grounding. This interest in visual and symbolic structure led to Darussalam, a series of digital illustrations that poetically reflect on life in Brunei, blending local flora, architecture, and memories to evoke a sense of peace, place, and spiritual connection. Environmental preservation is also central to my practice. Through my art, I hope to inspire appreciation for Brunei’s ecosystems and cultural heritage, fostering awareness through serene and meaningful visual storytelling. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Art from the University of Southampton and a Master’s in Education from the University of Bath. For over 14 years, I’ve taught A-Level Art & Design and Travel & Tourism, and I believe deeply in the transformative power of both art and education to shape how we see ourselves and the world. My work has been exhibited locally and internationally. In 2024, I was commissioned to create a series of site-specific artworks for Radisson Hotel in Brunei, and in 2025, I had the honour of representing Brunei at the Isle to Isle: A Reflection of BIMP-EAGA through Contemporary Art exhibition at the National Art Gallery in Malaysia. My installation Langit explored geometric language through the shared word for “sky” across BIMP-EAGA cultures. I also illustrated and published my first children’s book Into the Mangroves in 2022, merging storytelling and illustration to engage young audiences with culturally grounded themes. My creative journey continues to evolve at the intersection of art, education, and cultural storytelling. |