Anne Samat is a Malaysian artist who uses traditional weaving techniques from Island Southeast Asia to create technically complex and visually arresting sculptural wall reliefs and anthropomorphic figures. The artist “interrupts” the lines and patterns of the weave by inserting a wide range of everyday objects, usually household items such as colanders, combs, and garden rakes. Her selection of these objects is congruent with the often very personal nature of her work, with its focus on family, gender, and identity. The work Follow Your Heart Wholeheartedly is a sculptural installation composed of three wall sculptures and one standing figure. The artist considers this work a tribute to her parents, ordinary folk who inspired her to pursue her dreams beyond what many would have expected of someone from her humble background. The title of the work alludes to the advice given to her many years ago by her late father, which was instrumental in her decision to become an artist.

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