Artist Statement 

In my work, I explore how experiences of war, exile, and migration impact an individual’s sense of unity within themselves and others. Although we are profoundly connected through our shared humanity, we are often otherized by shallow differences, which lead to isolation, marginalization and, at worst, devastating conflicts. All of the subjects in my paintings have undergone life altering events, which result in challenges to one’s self-identity and estrangement from others. As a Muslim Egyptian American, many of my works are also inspired by my own personal experience reconciling my Islamic faith and Arab heritage with US cultural norms, particularly at a time rife with conflict between the West and the Middle East.  

I incorporate two distinct art techniques in my paintings: Islamic art and Western figurative art. In Islamic art, the use of figurative images was generally prohibited. Instead, Muslim artisans utilized sacred geometric patterns, architecture and calligraphy to convey divine unity and oneness. In contrast, Western art encompassed figurative paintings, drawings, and sculptures of religious themes and significant historical events. In my paintings, I experiment with color, line, and form to unite these two distinct styles into a single composition. My goal is to produce images that are both unified when viewed in totality, yet also exposes each style’s unique characteristics when viewed up close. I am hopeful that these works produce a visual meditation on the commonality that unifies all people, while also highlighting their differences.