About Fine Kitsch
Fine Kitsch was founded in 2023 as a family of four, with the aim to capture how our art and life can harmoniously intertwine. From our love for creating and painting with our children, to backyard experiments, and nurturing habits of exploring home cooking; in our home, art is more than a practice—it's a way of life.
Each chapter we unfold is a gentle reflection of our family's journey, passion, and dedication to discovering the extraordinary in the everyday. We hope to inspire and connect with others in the world through our artistic approach to 'business' and personal journey.
/ˌfʌɪn ‘kɪtʃ/
Derived from the concept of fine arts, 'Fine Kitsch' is a playful juxtaposition that reflects both the core of our creative process and our outlook on life:
"Fine" in our name signifies a commitment to creating art that embodies both aesthetic and intellectual purposes. This means that our work is deeply rooted in the traditions of fine arts, blurring the lines between fine art and design, and redefining conventional perspectives on what constitutes art.
Whereas "Kitsch"—once a term used pejoratively to describe art seen as overly accessible, sentimental, or superficial, aimed at popular taste—introduces a touch of the everyday into our work, celebrating the charm in these very qualities. Thus, we reimagine the ordinary as worthy of artistic expression, viewing everyday details as essential pieces of art.
MD WA'IE
CO-FOUNDER / CREATIVE DIRECTOR
A husband and a father of two who has a great appreciation for the arts and a genuine respect for creativity in all its forms. His passion extends beyond artistic endeavors to include cooking, which for him is not merely a necessity but a true joy. He delights in experimenting with flavors and sharing his culinary creations with family and friends. In his kitchen, ingredients become art, and every meal is a masterpiece.
When he’s not immersed in art or cooking, Waie embraces an outdoor lifestyle with a passion for camping adventures. There's no greater joy than venturing into nature with your loved ones.
Waie spent a decade honing his skills in the banking industry. After the arrival of their two children, he decided to leave his career in banking behind to pursue a new path. Together with his wife, he launched Fine Kitsch, channeling his experience and passion into building a business that reflects their shared love for creativity and family.
ALYSSA ALIAS
CO-FOUNDER / ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
Alyssa is an eclectic artist and Art and Design educator at an all-girls secondary school in Brunei Darussalam. She earned her Fine Art degree from RMIT University in Melbourne, Australia, in 2016, followed by a Master of Teaching in Art Education from Universiti Brunei Darussalam in 2018. Her passion for art was evident early on; she was recognized as the top performer in Brunei for 'O' Level Art and Design in 2010 and received the Best in Art Award at Jerudong International School in 2013.
Alyssa's artistic perspective embraces the beauty of process, continually exploring new media and methods that capture the intersection of fine art and everyday life, while still preserving the traditional craftsmanship that underpins her creative journey. Known for her work in mixed-media portraits, she challenges conventional artistic boundaries through an experimental approach that spans painting, collage, relief sculpture, and installations. For her, art is as much about provoking thought and inspiring curiosity as it is about aesthetics.
In Fine Kitsch, Alyssa brings this philosophy to life, blending artistic exploration with the values of family and everyday wonder. Through each project, she hopes to inspire others to find beauty in both the ordinary and extraordinary moments, redefining what it means to create and appreciate art.