“Everyone’s an artist at some point in life, and everyone’s born into art.” — Nur Fatin (@whiteyedcat)
Art as Survival
For Fatin (the person behind Whiteyedcat), art began in the margins—literally. She’d sketch on the backs of receipts, exam papers, and even paper towels as a child. But it was a moment of stillness during the pandemic, while staring at a painting by Fadilah Karim, that something clicked.
“I saw a deer in that painting looking back at me like it was saying, ‘you gotta do something like this, you gotta paint, you gotta share your art.’” – Nur Fatin
That moment became her catalyst. Art became not just a form of expression—but survival.
Style, Solitude & Safe Spaces
Over the years, whiteyedcat’s palette has evolved—from cool tones to warmer ones—mirroring her personal growth. Her inspiration? The small, the quiet, the loved.
“I paint my surroundings, past experiences, books, plushies, video games, music. It all comes from the safe space I’ve created for myself.”
A recurring subject in her works is a woman in kebaya, captured in moments of stillness—getting ready, resting, avoiding the world outside.
“I love painting my subjects in kebaya, lounging around, maybe just back from dinner or delaying going out. It’s a whole mood.”
Moodboards, Details & Quiet Satisfaction
Her process is deeply personal, influenced by feelings and fleeting thoughts. A song, a sentence from a book, or a quiet moment can spark an idea. She builds visual mood boards—carefully curating references from old magazines, her gallery, or Pinterest—and pieces them into her vision.
“Some background details maybe no one will notice—but they’re there, and they satisfy me to the core.”
She paints digitally using Procreate, but with a traditional sensibility—almost like it’s canvas.
“People come to my booth and ask, ‘Is this acrylic? Is this oil?’ I love that they’re unsure—it makes me giddy inside.”
A Style That Can’t Be Boxed In
Asked to describe her artistic style, Fatin offers this gem:
“Traditionally polite but not, playfully dark but also not.”
It’s a balance between beauty and resistance. Her works often reflect her identity as a woman navigating local societal expectations—with a sprinkle of humour and a lot of heart.
“I hope to reflect a local girl in kebaya, fed up of being told to have kids and start a family to have the full womanhood experience.”
Culture in the Details
Fatin’s love for nyonya kebaya is more than aesthetic. She finds calm in painting the delicate floral embroidery and tendrils—it’s her homage to Malaysia’s rich culture.
“Calms my nerves down every time I paint these little details. Our culture is so rich indeed.”
Community, Colour, and a Husband Who Believes
Despite being a solo creator, she’s never alone.
“The love and support I get—from my husband, my loved ones, the art community—feeds me joy.”
Colour was once a personal struggle; she sought harmony, tutorials, and balance. But with time, she’s started blending tones that feel more like her.
A Future on Canvas (and with Better Back Support)
Fatin dreams of translating her digital works onto large canvases—and sharing her stories through life’s evolving seasons.
“More traditional, less digital. People will come and go, and I want to document that in my art. But please, pray for my back.”
Her long-term goal?
“A solo show. But more than that—peace with myself through art.”
To Aspiring Artists: Be Real
Fatin offers humble but valuable advice:
“Find the kind of art you like. Follow artists who inspire you. Study their work. Paint where your heart wanders.”
She encourages consistency, curiosity, and sincerity—especially in this social media age.
“To be genuine and real in a community will invite genuine connections. And those are worth more than made-up ones.”
Projects & Zines Worth Reading
While currently in holiday mode, she recently launched a new art zine that sold out during KL Illustration Fair 2025.
“Writing is my first love. Pairing it with my art in a zine is my favourite thing to do.”
She’s also worked with indie band d_leted on the song Cela, and designed Raya packets for CelcomDigi.
“Seeing my relatives’ glad expressions during Raya made me feel they were proud of me. That moment—I treasure it most.”
Connect with whiteyedcat via her website or instagram!