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ARTWORKS

Behind The Work of “Peaceful Rebellion”

4 min readMay 4, 2024
Peaceful Rebellion | Ink on paper | 82 x 132 cm | 2024

“Peaceful Rebellion” portrays Lego stormtroopers marching, each holding a gun except for one who carries a banner spray-painted with a peace symbol, symbolizing a call to end the internet-driven conflict. The artwork underscores the overwhelming prevalence of cyberbullying and online warfare, urging viewers to seek solutions to halt these digital conflicts. Through this depiction, “Peaceful Rebellion” prompts reflection on the need for concerted efforts to combat the spread of hostility and aggression online, advocating for a more peaceful and harmonious digital environment.

Behind The Story

In today’s digital landscape, cyberbullying and online warfare have emerged as significant societal challenges, underscored by both factual data and real-life narratives. One such instance involved a teenager subjected to relentless cyberbullying, leading to devastating consequences for their mental well-being. Additionally, reports have highlighted the use of social media platforms for spreading misinformation and inciting online conflicts, further exacerbating societal tensions. These incidents serve as poignant reminders of the pervasive impact of cyberbullying and online warfare on individuals and communities alike.

As technology continues to advance, it is imperative to address these issues through proactive measures, such as promoting digital literacy, fostering online empathy, and implementing robust cybersecurity protocols. By working together to combat cyberbullying and online warfare, we can create a safer and more inclusive digital environment for all.

Visual Inspiration

My artwork draws inspiration from a powerful photograph depicting a historic moment of defiance. The photo was taken during a shipyard event in 1936, portrays workers expected to salute Hitler, with one man, August Landmesser, standing in silent opposition with crossed arms. His quiet act of resistance speaks volumes about courage and nonconformity to Nazi ideals.

The Man Who Refused to Salute Hitler | 1936

(Note: This story is a fictionalized account inspired by the historical context of the photograph. My interpretation focuses solely on its visual elements, rather than its narrative context.)

3D Process

Although I initially had the idea for the composition in mind, the concept for this artwork hit me a few days later out of the blue. I was just about to drift off to sleep when an image of stormtroopers holding a banner spray-painted with a peace symbol popped into my head. I was suddenly wide awake, so I quickly wrote down the idea before dozing off again. This spontaneous burst of inspiration gave the artwork a powerful narrative, contrasting militarism with peace and making a bold visual statement. These moments of creative insight often come when you least expect them, and capturing them in their raw form adds depth and authenticity to the artistic process.

Behind the process of the 3D compositing made using Blender.
Early stages of the 3D model depicting Imperial Stormtroopers, before the helmets were replaced with First Order Stormtroopers

Drawing Process

This drawing took me about 10 days to complete, using an 82 x 132 cm textured paper canvas. Employing the scumbling technique, I delicately shaded the peace logo using a limited palette of blue hues. Utilizing different-sized black pens, I added depth and precision to the details. By applying bokeh effects on the photo reference, I could blend the shading seamlessly and achieve a depth of field effect. Through this methodical process, I infused the artwork with subtle nuances and intricate details, creating a piece that invites viewers to explore its layers and message.

I sketched the outline for this drawing using an H-grade pencil, which allows for easy erasing.
Comparing the scale of the artwork with my hand, while the mesmerizing bokeh effect adds a sense of rapid completion.
For this drawing, I employ technical drawing pens with tip sizes ranging from 0.4 to 0.8. Each stroke of ink is meticulously applied, ensuring a thoughtful approach to composition, contrast, and depth.
Displaying my artwork on the wall before capturing it with a DSLR camera to ensure the highest quality and sharpness.

Display

My artwork was exhibited at G13 Gallery on March 2, 2024, as part of my solo exhibition. I’m delighted because numerous art collectors are vying to acquire this piece.

The artwork is encased in a white frame and equipped with anti-reflective glass. This glass stands out for its remarkable qualities, allowing for high light transmission, minimal reflection, and accurate color reproduction.
Visitors engage the artworks during the exhibition at G13 gallery.

Art Print

The art prints are available for purchase at just RM29.00 each. Visit my website at www.noorzahran.com/artprints to see art prints available for purchase.

The art prints are part of a limited edition of 100 pieces, and each print is individually numbered and signed by me.

All rights reserved. No part of this content may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher.

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