Sarkasi Said

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About the artwork

In Sarkasi Said's "Tongkang," a fleet of colorful boats rests gently on a tranquil blue sea, their vibrant hues reflecting the warmth of a sun-drenched day. Each tongkang, a traditional Malay boat, whispers tales of maritime heritage and the seafaring spirit of generations past. The artist's use of line and color evokes a sense of quietude and belonging, inviting viewers to imagine a life lived in harmony with the sea. This piece invites viewers to embark on a visual journey, where whispers of romance mingle with the salty air and the promise of new adventures on the horizon. It is a celebration of heritage and the simple joys of life by the water's edge, a reminder that even amidst the vastness of the sea, love can find its anchor in the heart of a vibrant community.

About the artist

Sarkasi Said (1940-2021), better known as Tzee, is a Singaporean batik painter, the 2020 recipient of the Cultural Medallion and a Guinness World Record for the world’s longest batik painting in 2003. Sarkasi Said is known for his unconventional wax-resisting technique, bold use of colors and depictions of nature. By employing abstract and modern techniques, Sarkasi portrays vibrant and intricate decorative elements in his works. Dedicated to his artistic pursuit for almost 60 years, Sarkasi is regarded by many Singapore visual artists as the pioneer of local batik paintings.Sarkasi’s ‘Singapore orchid’ batik design was selected by the National Trades Union Congress for the Singapore Dress in the 1970s. During this period, he was known as the “Baron of Batik”.
Sarkasi has also served on committees for the National Arts Council, Malay Museum Committee, and the Modern Art Society. A recipient of Pingat APAD (Angkatan Pelukis Aneka Daya) in 1974, his other awards include the Best Foreign Entry in the Sarasota Art Exhibition in the United States (1981), First Prize (Abstract) in the 8th UOB Painting of the Year (1989) and the Berita Harian Pioneer Generation Achiever Awards (2015).