Noor Mahnun Mohamed (b. 1964, Malaysia), more widely known as Anum, is an artist, curator, writer and educator. Her practice, largely figurative, comprises painting domestic scenes and still life that fuses elements of realism, allegory and the whimsical. Through which, she weaves subtle psychological narratives with dark wit and emotional depth. Anum focuses on the physicality rather than expressiveness of her figures, which usually seem devoid of emotion, yet each composition is thoughtfully conceived and captures deeply personal moments in her life. In a way, these mise-en-scènes serve as a repository, capturing the banality of life. Formally trained in architecture before pursuing her artistic career, Anum’s works often feature intricate geometric patterns that also reflect her ongoing interest with architecture of her more immediate surroundings in Malaysia and the region, as well as from Europe. The interplay of influences from Southeast Asia and the West—from painterly techniques to symbolic motifs—have been informed by the artist’s personal experiences, and her wry observations of life gestures towards broader commentary around femininity, labour and memory.
Her solo exhibitions include September (2021) at The Back Room, Kuala Lumpur and Disco Lombok Still Life by Noor Mahnun (2017) at The Edge Galerie, Kuala Lumpur, among others. Anum was artist-in-residence at Rimbun Dahan in Kuang, Selangor (2000-2001) and received a scholarship from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for a printmaking course at Il Bisonte, Florence (2002-2003). She completed her MFA at Hochschule für Bildende Künste, Braunschweig in 1996.