Significant of Frog Image as a Cultural Symbol in Printmaking

Signifikan Imej Katak sebagai Simbol Budaya dalam Seni Cetakan

Abstract

Printmaking is a branch of fine art that grew along with the development of modern Malaysian art. In the post-independence period, the idea of the National Cultural Policy (DKK) 1971 had a great influence on the world of modern Malaysian art in addressing local cultural and social issues. The visual essence of the printmaking artwork is also influenced by symbolism from the subject of nature and the environment to convey cultural messages. This study aims to identify the function of frog images in conventional printmaking artwork. This writing is to analyze and study the context and meaning of the frog subject as a symbol in printmaking artworks. The research approach uses a qualitative method that is carried out by collecting primary and secondary data through observation, interviews, and documentation. Three conventional printmaking artworks featuring images of frogs were selected for analysis. The findings found that the use of the frog animal symbol in the artwork is used as a form of communication to convey a message in a more polite and implicit way. It classifies socio-culture from environmental, cultural, and social aspects through the relationship between symbols, context, and meaning. Despite having similarities in terms of the use of the image of a frog as a symbolic, the depiction of the message that each artist wants to convey leads to different meanings. In conclusion, the use of the subject of frogs as a theme is not limited to simply producing visual images in the artwork but is a symbolic representation in conveying meaning. Indirectly, these artworks highlight the message and response to the local socio-cultural happenings in Malaysia.