Kedah, Malaysia, b. 1986

Haafiz Shahimi (b.1986) known as APIS, whose interdisciplinary work spans through printmaking and performance art. APIS began exploring pyrography print in 2014, developing a unique style rooted in Malaysian print and textile traditions. Inspired by batik printing, he created metal matrices depicting cultural and mythological imagery, heated and applied to surfaces like canvas and jute. His experimental approach to temperature variations led him to explore new pyrographic techniques, blending art with scientific principles of thermodynamics. APIS’s work often delves into dualities—science and mythology, East and West, physics and philosophy—establishing him as a boundary-pushing figure in contemporary Malaysian art. Through his innovative techniques, including pyrography, inverted burn, and direct chemical and petrol burns, APIS has introduced a unique fusion of traditional and industrial materials to his practice. Recently, he combined automotive paint with pyrographic methods to produce vibrant, reflective pieces for Art Central Hong Kong, creating visuals with accidental markings and intentional deconstruction. After a decade, he also returned to the meticulous process of rod-based pyrography to evoke the appearance of charcoal lines, as seen in his recent work, "Desire", which showcases the culmination of his 13-year journey. APIS's impact lies in his transformative approach, which continues to challenge conventional art practices and redefine the scope of Malaysian contemporary art.