A believer in the uplifting power of art, Daniel Liau has amassed an international following by staying true to his unique artistic style of self-expression
As a spirited seven-year-old, Daniel Liau’s first artwork was not met with approval. He attempted graffiti on the walls of his home, which his parents didn’t appreciate at all.
But it was perhaps a foreshadow of things to come—throughout most of his early artistic career, Liau’s works were first met with hesitation and confusion, before audiences warmed to their wistful pull.
See also: Malaysian Artists Who've Made Their Collectible Prints Available Online
Despite keeping an extremely low profile, the Ipoh-born artist boasts an impressive list of international achievements, from being the only Malaysian artist to have his work published by the Tianjin People’s Fine Arts Publishing House in China to having his paintings selected to appear on the limited edition French postage stamp in 2018 in celebration of the 54th anniversary of French relations with China.
Reflecting on the challenges of Covid-19 and art’s ability to spark connection in an increasingly fragmented world, Liau gives Tatler a glimpse of what inspires his craft.
What do you find most exciting about art?
I've always liked cultural art with a sense of mystery. Things like Egyptian culture, the world of dinosaurs, the secrets of the universe—I find much inspiration from mysterious things outside my realm.
What made you want to become an artist?
I've always wanted to do something meaningful for the world, so I integrated my life experience and common sense into my work which has evolved into philosophical art.
I believe in creating positive energy and channelling that into resolving conflict, bridging divisions, building communication and ultimately healing our broken world. My positive energy is best channelled through art.
What’s the secret to your success overseas?
I was lucky to have found people who appreciated my art when I was painting under my Russian and China masters. My work and philosophy resonated with them and the timing was good in that my art emerged at a time when there was a thirst for new artists with a ‘brand’. I put myself out there with my brand, which is essentially 'philosophy through art’, and it took off.
