The Road Less Travelled

In his upcoming solo exhibition, The Road Less Travelled, self-taught artist Syahbandi Samat invites us to traverse the unique contours of his artistic journey, rendered meticulously with the humble ballpoint pen. Rooted in the simplicity of his early experiences, Syahbandi's choice of this common writing tool is a deliberate nod to the idea that art, at its essence, doesn't demand extravagance; it can be born from the ordinary. It's a medium that echoes his belief that creativity should be accessible to all, resonating with the easily obtainable and inexpensive nature of the ballpoint pen.

Syahbandi's artistic evolution unfolds as a fascinating narrative, initially guided by a conscientious effort to align with mainstream tastes. Delving into familiar narratives and steering away from supposed unsavoury themes, his works early on wove unconventional tales within the confines of palatability. However, a transformative shift occurs along the way. Breaking free from the constraints of societal expectations, Syahbandi fearlessly addresses issues close to his heart – corruption, environmental concerns, and profound introspection into his personal experiences.

This exhibition tracks pivotal moments in Syahbandi's artistic trajectory, where the artist unshackles himself from the need for universal approval. Here, authenticity takes centre stage. The familiar narratives are replaced by a raw, unapologetic exploration of self and society. The appearance of a small house within his creations alludes to deeper introspections, hinting that Syahbandi's journey of self-discovery is one that’s ongoing. Each series within the exhibition unveils layers of his thoughts, memories, traumas, and anxieties, inviting the viewer to participate in this intimate self-analysis.

The Road Less Travelled not only showcases Syahbandi's technical prowess with the ballpoint pen but also unveils the artist's ability to move beyond the well-trodden path of technique and expertise, each work an intimate story to tell. It's an exhibition that beckons us to join him on this somewhat uncharted road, to explore, question, and perhaps find some commonalities and resonance within the lines and contours of his profound artistic expressions.

Ivan Gabriel

December 2023