Malay ethnicity in aesthetic transformation: analysis in the creative exploration of North Sumatra painting

The Malay ethnicity in North Sumatra is rich in artistic traditions, including visual arts. Malay aesthetics, encompassing high aesthetic values, are commonly expressed through applied arts such as decorative motifs, traditional attire, and everyday objects. These Malay artistic expressions serve as the basis and reference for the creative exploration of North Sumatran painting art. This article examines how aesthetic transformation is revealed in the efforts to preserve Malay visual cultural forms. The socio-cultural approach is presented descriptively and qualitatively, emphasising the appreciative aspect. The methods employed include observation and creative endeavours, with the inventive method referring to Graham Wallas’s theory of creativity. Aesthetic evaluation from audience responses was obtained through observation. The conclusions drawn from the study are as follows: 1) Malay ethnicity, as a traditional identity, is manifested in the aesthetic transformation of its visual culture, transitioning from functional aesthetics (applied art) to pure expressive aesthetics (fine art); 2) Aesthetic transformation gives rise to new values through elements of concept, form, utility, and iconography; and 3) Aesthetic transformation impacts the strength of North Sumatran painting art and contributes to the resilience of local culture.