Freelance illustrator and designer Soefara Jafney ’s Cik Siti Wan Kembang, from her digital portrait series, is a striking mash-up of local folklore and the slick style of US comic books. By fusing the enchanting mystique of Malay tales with bold, eye-popping designs, the 45-year-old artist has given this Kelantanese female warrior a fresh, modern twist – proving that tradition can be both timeless and totally cool. “I was inspired by her story – a skilled fighter who led an army of women warriors into battle on horseback, yet also possessed a nurturing side,” says Soefara in a recent interview.
“Legend has it that she cared for a wounded kijang (deer), which became her beloved pet, so I included it in the illustration. To this day, the Kelantan emblem features a pair of kijang in her honour,” she adds. Soefara will be part of the panel session “From Malaysia To International Arena” at the upcoming Asia Pop Culture Convention (AsiaPopCon) 2024, taking place on Sept 28 and 29 at the Pavilion Exhibition Centre in Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur.
A close-up look at Soefara’s illustration of Cik Siti Wan Kembang, which has led the artist to explore traditional tales and female heroes in Malaysia. Photo: Soefara Jafney "As an art director for collectible statues, I have the privilege of collaborating with incredibly talented artists from all over - the US, UK, Thailand, Canada, Russia. The creative scene in Malaysia is equally thriving.
In fact, the master painter (J.