Through Ismail Mat Hussin’s intricate batik works, one can observe the multicultural traditions of Malaysia. The wau kite is the nation’s cultural emblem and icon, and is a popular past time in the state of Kelantan. The reverse side of the Malaysian 1 ringgit note features three wau bulan’s ascending into the sky amidst a vast field. In this scene, we see a man making a kite frame assembled from light and flexible bamboo, while a friend prepares the bamboo into fine strips. Each wau is a unique piece that reflects the artistry and technique of the kite maker. Ismail was also adept with watercolours which he learnt from school-teacher Nik Mahmood from 1954 to 1955 and later Khalil Ibrahim although he is better known for his batiks. He was also a musician, with a Grade V music certificate in violin from the Royal School of Music (London) and worked part-time as a musician at Radio Televisyen Malaysia Kota Bharu. He became a graphic designer cum illustrator for Syarikat Percetakan Dian in Kota Bharu, from 1979 to 1991. He was a member of the Angkatan Pelukis SeMalaysia as well as the Persatuan Senilukis Kelantan (Peseni).