Blooming Malaysia
Inspired by the country of Malaysia
Lazim Ismail, Batik Artist
In 1960 Malaysia's first Prime Minister chose the Bunga Raya
(hibiscus) as the national flower, with each petal representing
one of the Rukun Negara (National Principles). On this
Bearista, the hibiscus blossoms as a symbol of Malaysia's
courage, unity, and warmth.
The artist, Lazim Ismail, brings over 50 years of artistry to
this Bearista, blending the iconic Bunga Raya with graceful
Malaysian batik patterns. This Bearista blooms as a tribute to
Malaysia's story, a reminder of where we come from and the
beauty that keeps growing.
In person with the artist.
This bearista is currently displayed at Starbucks KLIA Contact Pier. Find me
About the artists
Lazim Ismail
Lazim bin Hj. Ismail currently works at Batik Selembut
Sutera, Kompleks Kraftangan, Kuala Lumpur. With a
professional certificate from Perbadanan Kemajuan Kraftangan
Malaysia
(1986), he has been actively involved in the batik industry
for over 24 years. Lazim’s journey in batik began as a hobby
in 1981, leading him to work at Alfa Batik in Muar for
three years, and later formalize his skills through a course
in Terengganu in 1984.
In 1996, Lazim established his own batik shop in Bangunan
Koperasi Parit Raja, Batu Pahat, where he ran his business
for three years. However, the economic downturn during this
period impacted his business, prompting him to relocate to
Kuala Lumpur in 1998. Upon moving, he joined Kompleks
Kraftangan as a batik demonstrator, where he not only
showcased
batik techniques but also served as an instructor, sharing
his knowledge with both tourists and locals eager to learn
more about this traditional craft. His role at Kompleks
Kraftangan allowed him to make a significant impact by
educating others in the art of batik.
In 2000, Lazim expanded his career by opening a batik
gallery that specializes in wall decorations, combining his
artistic skills with interior aesthetics. Lazim's long-term
vision is to elevate batik art on a larger scale
by organizing solo exhibitions across Malaysia and
internationally, with the aim of sharing Malaysian batik
heritage with a global audience.
Purchase this mini bearista to add into your collection. Get it now from your nearby Starbucks store.
A portion of the proceeds from the mini-Bearista will go to the collaborating artists and will also be donated to the Palestine Relief Fund.
OTHER BEARISTA
