After a 30-year Hiatus, Renowned Photographer Syed Zainal Rashid is Back With a Solo Exhibition
After a remarkable 30-year hiatus, renowned photographer Syed Zainal Rashid is returning triumphantly. His much-anticipated solo exhibition aptly named 'A Different Path' is a captivating journey through his lens, showcasing a blend of timeless classics and fresh, evocative works throughout his travels.
A passion reignited
Syed Zainal's story is one of dedication and sacrifice—the quiet sacrifices of a father who put his dreams on pause to take care of his family. After marrying actress Fatimah Abu Bakar and welcoming their four daughters, Aleya, Amani, Aleysha and Aryana, Syed Zainal knew he had to put his dreams of being a full-time photographer on pause to ensure they were all well taken care of.
For years he focused on building his business and making sure his daughters were equipped to face the world but since retiring in 2023, he is finally back with his first solo exhibition in more than 30 years.
A Different Path
'A Different Path' tells the story of Syed Zainal and his many travels after retirement, but it also speaks to the different paths he took in his artistic career. For those unfamiliar, Syed Zainal was one of Malaysia's most prolific photographers in the 1980s, and he rose to fame for his work capturing movement in black and white using film.
Although his works in 'A Different Path' focus on different techniques and mediums, such as street and travel photography and landscapes, Syed Zainal's speciality in capturing movement and portraits can also be seen in his works.
Through a special one-on-one walkthrough of the Centre for Photographic Arts (CPA), we were honoured to have Syed Zainal explain in meticulous detail why he shot each photograph and chose specific ones to display at the CPA as part of the exhibition.
From beautiful landscape shots of his travels through the Himalayan region of Kashmir and his expedition in the Uzbekistan desert to mesmerising in-the-moment shots of a Nikah ceremony at a mosque in Lahore.
Not to mention his glorious portraits of a monk, a nun and a sadhu which perfectly showcased his keen eye for capturing portraits.
A space for the creative community
The exhibition is being held at the Centre for Photographic Arts, also known as Kokopelli at Templer in PJ, from October 29 to December 29, 2024.
The versatile establishment features an inspiring art gallery, an inviting event space, and a delightful restaurant that evokes a sense of nostalgia. In addition to acting as an art space and gallery, the space also has a restaurant known for its beloved dishes.
So whether you're planning a memorable event for over 60 guests or an intimate gathering in their meeting room for up to 12 individuals, the venue is an awesome place in PJ for good food and company.
Overall, we highly recommend everyone check out the exhibition—it's free! While you're there, why not nourish yourself with some delicious food and drinks at Kokopelli?
For more information check out Kokopelli Templer's Instagram page or their website.
A Different Path
Featured Image Credit: Rojak Daily, Fahad Iman