Syahrul Anuar (b. 1995, Singapore) is an interdisciplinary artist and cultural practitioner, navigating the realms of merantau (migration) inspired by his family's diaspora within the Nusantara (Malay World). His artistic journey is a deep dive into the rich narratives and histories within the Malay World, exploring the intricate tapestry of human movement and the surrounding environments. Roving through a research-led practice, Syahrul interlaces fact and fiction, seamlessly blending past and present, reality and the digital realm.

Beyond the confines of traditional photography, Syahrul's practice transcends boundaries by incorporating cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Computer Graphics, and Smart Contracts. These tools serve not only as mediums but also as frameworks re-imagining and re-constructing photography within the complexities of our dynamic contemporary landscape.

A graduate of Nanyang Technological University, School of Art, Design Media, with a BFA in Media Art (Photography), Syahrul was honoured with the Kwek Leng Joo Prize of Excellence in 2021. His artistic endeavours have been showcased in exhibitions across Singapore, China, and the Netherlands, resonating with audiences globally.

Selected Works & Info

Awards

  • Kwek Leng Joo Prize of Excellence in Photography. 2021
  • Singapore Youth Photography Awards (Finalists), 2021

Education

Bachelor of Fine Arts in New Media (Photography), NTU School of Art, Design and Media - 2017-2021

Exhibitions

  • Elemental Constellations, Macalline Arts Center — Shanghai, 2023
  • dblspace 2.0, Peninsula Shopping Center — Singapore Art Week, 2023
  • Pictures In The Mind, DECK Peace Center — Singapore Art Week, 2023
  • Shaking Land And Water: Jendela Visual Arts, Esplanade, — Singapore, 2022
  • How We Learn(t): Kwek Leng Joo Prize of Excellence Presentation, Gillman Barracks — Singapore, 2022
  • The Natural History of An Island: Three Shadows Photography Art Center — Beijing China, 2022
  • ICADE Online Exhibition, Tsinghua University — Xiamen China, 2021
  • The Natural History of An Island: Jimei x Arles International Photo Festival — China, 2021
  • The Makeable Mind: Noordelicht Festival, Old Sugar Factory, — Groningen, Netherlands 2021
  • The Blind Men And The Elephant, Gillman Barracks — Singapore, 2021
  • On/Off Film Screening, The Projector — Singapore, 2021
  • Shooting Home Youth Award, Objectifs Centre — Singapore. 2021
  • Sensitivities, Practice Practice SG — Singapore. 2020
  • Bearings, ADM Gallery 1 — Singapore, 2020
  • State Of Affairs, DECK — Singapore, 2019

Artist Talks

  • Shaking Land and Water: Artist Talk - Jendela Visual Arts, Esplanade — September, 2022
  • How We Learn(t): Artist Sharing - Gillman Barracks — June, 2022
  • Counter-Cartographies - A Road Is Not A Line: Workshopables Supernormal Space — Singapore, 2022
  • Flaneur In The Insular Cities, Jalan Besar Salon — March, 2021
  • Shooting Home Youth Award, Objectifs Centre — February, 2021
  • On/Off Film Screening, The Projector — January, 2021

Press & Media

Residencies & Workshops

  • Dblspace Studio Residency, Peninsula Shopping Centre — Oct, 2022
  • BeFantastic Together Fellowship, June — September, 2021
  • Workshopables: "Counter Cartographies: A Road Is (Not) A Line", Supernormal Space — Singapore, 2021
  • Shooting Home Youth Awards Workshop, Objectifs Centre — Dec 2020 to Jan 2021