Nabil Fikri, one of the talented artists in the local art scene

Nabil works on a water colour painting at home.

Nabil provides tips on drawing portrait to young artists.

Nabil with members of the G5 Artists group during their art demonstration at one of the shopping complexes.

Nabil Fikri poses with Pg Dato Paduka Hj Asmalee during an art exhibition at PTE Berakas.

Nabil Fikri Haronli is one of the Sultanate's well-renowned artists and specialises in drawing portraits.

Five years ago, this talented 24-year-old was only a student but has since gained popularity and success amongst art enthusiasts in the country.

His artworks are displayed at Sumbangsih Mulia in Beribi and judging from his drawings, Nabil certainly proves his artistic skills in his masterpieces ranging from water-coloured flora and fauna paintings, pencil sketches of local sceneries as well as individual portraits.

He began his art business in February 2009 and called his booth 'Nabil Fikri's Art Corner'.

"My aim is to promote the local arts scene especially to tourists," said Nabil. "In the past, people used to say that Bruneians weren't able to survive working as a full-time artists. I want to prove that this century-old comment was wrong."

The artists continued on by saying that any individual can achieve limitless success if they work hard for it and are willing to accept the various challenges faced.

Nabil also participates in charity bazaars and expos nationwide. The talented youngster conducts various workshops on portrait drawings for secondary school students during the holidays. He also organises art exhibitions with the G5 Artist Group.

In his role as the G5 Artist Group President, he had earlier organised two major exhibitions, which needed much preparations.

He is also concerned about the students' progress in their artwork and therefore, attends exhibitions organised by various schools in the Sultanate. Nabil also had the opportunity to meet a well-renowned artist, Pg Dato Paduka Hj Asmalee, during an art expo at PTE in Berakas.

One of his most priceless drawings is the portrait of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei. He drew it from an old 1968 photo, which was the same year as His Majesty's coronation. According to Nabil, the drawing possesses a historical value and he has turned down a lot of offers by art enthusiasts wishing to purchase the portrait.

"Use your talents to promote Brunei," Nabil said, hoping that more talented youngsters would come forward to showcase their skills in the art scene.