Femmething interviews multi-disciplinary artist/designer Idris Johor aka PrettyFreakyFantasy, best known for his current exhibition at Cloth & Clef, where a whimsical collection created from recycled materials such as abandoned body parts of mannequins, was brought to life in the form of functional art.
Trained in architectural drafting and graphic design, Idris left his career in architecture about 10 years ago to pursue his passion in multifaceted art and design. With a spectrum of eclectic projects in his portfolio, his work has developed in diverse areas encompassing both artistic roles and design work. From product design, set/event design & styling, to fashion and interior design as well as artistic installations, his boldness bridge the gap between the separated worlds of art and design, whilst injecting the two with his individuality.
You began with architectural training and later moved on to specialise in arts. Did architecture remain a decisive influence that denotes your style and creative discipline, in terms of practical application of architectural principles in your art?
I took up a graphic design course after architecture drafting. I always like drawing and producing art so I decided to move on to become an artist. Now I run my own design company which allow me to produce art. My company does design and decor construction for events, interior decor, styling for photoshoots, set design as well as costume designs. Architecture drafting has a slight influence in terms of application in my interior design work, such as Blu Jaz on Arab Street. Mannequin legs with lights are used as part of the decor, which preserves the relationships of functional art in design.
What inspires you? Where do your ideas come from?
Smile. I want people to smile when they see my works, not to stare and try to find out the meaning behind it. All my life, I’ve been looking for something that makes me happy. Through my art, I can create my own world and characters. Like a gardener, I plant in some characters full of colours, layers, textures and shape to my work, creating a surrealistic fantasy with pretty butterflies and flowers and freaky eyes with tentacles.
You mean, you were not on acid?
Haha. No. Putting a smile on people with my work truly inspires me.
