After nearly a year of following Afiza’s work on Instagram and admiring her exhibitions from afar, we finally had the opportunity to see one in person at Temu House yesterday.
Afiza Abubakar, also known as Magicthinking, is an intuitive textile artist based in Tokyo. She specialises in Saori weaving, a Japanese style of hand weaving that emphasises creativity and self-expression.
Founded by Misao Jo in the 1970s, Saori weaving encourages weavers to embrace their individuality, including what might traditionally be considered flaws or mistakes.
Afiza discovered Saori weaving in 2014 through the Saori community and has since learned most of her weaving skills within the community.
Afiza’s educational background is in the sciences, where she studied electronics, semiconductors, and neuroscience.
If we’re not mistaken, this is the first exhibition in Malaysia where Afiza is showcasing her work. Big thanks to Temu House for organising the event.
For those interested, The Tension Must Be Just Right runs from August 3rd to 18th, 2024. It is open on weekends only, from 10 AM to 5 PM, at Temu House in Seksyen 16, Petaling Jaya.
The Tension Must Be Just Right is a soft and intimate art exhibition featuring Afiza Abubakar, Lada Dedic, and Xeem Noor. Visitors are welcome to wear and try on selected artworks.
Afiza Abubakar and Xeem Noor will also host a workshop on 18 August, 1pm-4pm. Participants can learn basic stitching techniques. All materials will be supplied, and you’ll leave with your own handmade creation. Find out more about the workshop here.
More pictures on Instagram. Full gallery at aditakespictures.com. Here’s the Google Maps to Temu House. Learn more about Afiza’s work here and follow her on Instagram for the latest updates on her exhibitions.
