Heritage Value of the Malayness Socio-Cultural Symbols in Millennium Artist Series of Arts: A Research Analysis in Semiotics

Abstract

This study explains the analysis of the semiotics in the painting artworks of the Din Omar, who focuses on the forms of heritage values in his creations. This study is also important for the documentation of the Malay culture, which has customary and culturally-related elements, where the human value is given a touch of heritage elements, as portrayed in the production of the serial works Tepak Sirih Series, Tepak Sirih: Menanti Tetamu siri 5, and Ukiran Indah di Puncak Indah by Din Omar. The study looks into more details the description of the meaning of semiotic approach analysis by Ferdinand De Saussure, which is interview with the curator and analysis of three selected artworks. The researchers are also providing exposure to elements behind the cultural materials, such as the Tepak Siri Series, Tepak Sirih: Menanti Tetamu Siri 5, and Ukiran Indah di Puncak Indah. The findings of the study revealed that the Tepak Sirih series artwork possesses the value of non-verbal communication in community engagements and weddings. The legacy and Malay culture in the Tepak Sirih: Menanti Tetamu siri 5 work carries the meaning of customary wealth in official ceremonies, but not suitable for arbitrary activities. In the Ukiran Indah DiPuncak Indah artwork, Hulu Keris Patah Tiga gives the meaning of a Malay traditional weapon used to complement Raja sehari or the Malay wedding dress. Para pandai besi produced a dagger with a Malay identity and spiritual elements which will not be extinct and is always kept as national treasures.

Received: 29 March 2021 / Accepted: 23 June 2021 / Published: 8 July 2021