CustoMiked creations are handpainted with the utmost attention
A personalised touch from the artist next door
BEYOND THE EXCHANGE of simple pleasantries, that good-natured neighbouring Malaysian Uncle may have more to share in terms of life experiences that a twenty-something fresh grad could only imagine and strive to be as accomplished. Uncover the background of a local artist comfortably and passionately painted his way into recognition.
From teacher to beauty industry leader to artist. Michael Liew has honed his artistic skills since childhood. After graduation, he was posted to Victoria Institution KL as an English teacher. Wanting to challenge himself after the 4-year stint, he chose to venture into the corporate world, beginning as a distributor, managing fashion brands Replay & Cerruti 1881. A transfer to the company’s beauty division began a twodecade long journey that saw Michael take on different leadership roles in Prestige Products, L’Oreal and Estée Lauder Malaysia.
As a self-taught artist, Michael has experimented and is skilled in various art techniques. But his forte lies in acrylic painting on fabric and leather. Upon leaving the corporate world in 2017, he decided to pursue his artistic interests and CustoMiked was born. Exclusive made-to-order pieces are his speciality, with designs created exclusively for each client according to their preferences on apparel, shoes and bags.
Items can be new or existing favourites given a new lease of life, in the spirit of sustainability. Michael also shares his passion via classes, events and collaborations, coming full circle to the role of a teacher once more.
Remember that all great things take time and that the creative process cannot be rushed, which is why Michael estimates between 4-6 weeks to finish any given piece, as stated on his website. He is open to painting on various fabrics including cotton, leather, silk, wool, denim, canvas, nylon, suede and synthetics. Materials to avoid would be textured, knit or stretchy garments such as velvet, spandex, lycra, tweed, mesh, and netting. He also works on apparel, bags, shoes, homeware and other goods. A handpainted only piece can be priced from RM400 onwards.
Michael’s approach and design philosophy are to fulfil a niche in the customised fashion industry so everyone can explore their individual tastes with style and originality, as it is your story to tell. They are pieces created to be worn and designed to be loved by you.
“I LOVE EXPERIMENTING. FASHION AND ART GO SEAMLESSLY AND AS FAR BACK AS I CAN REMEMBER, I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN DRAWING AND CREATING. MY PASSION FOR PAINTING ON FABRIC WAS INSPIRED BY THE INTRICACY OF EMBROIDERY AND APPLIQUE FROM HIGH FASHION DESIGNS”