Arabesques

I began to work with Islamic motifs to emphasize the artistic contributions of a culture that has been seen through only one lens. As I became familiar with Arabesques, patterns based on floral and plant designs, I was fascinated by the combination of repeated structure combined with an organic fluidity.

Historically, these repetitive patterns symbolize divine grandeur through the endless repetition of form. I have subverted that process by depicting the motifs in a state of decomposition. As the Arab Spring unfolds, the simultaneous crumbling and restructuring of order has augmented the relevancy of this theme. The depiction of plant and floral motifs also comments on the decaying environmental balance of our planet.

Generous support from the Puffin Foundation has allowed me to purchase new silk screens and gain access to a printmaking facility.