Concept Statement
The Hidden Identity collection delves into the complex role and identity of Afghan women, using a combination of traditional and modern painting techniques alongside mixed media. It reflects the shared cultural and historical experiences of Eastern women, including dress, customs, family roles, and the constraints on individual identity. These women navigate profound internal and external challenges across cultural and social levels, leaving indelible marks on both their bodies and souls.
Visual Narrative
Conciseness and Ambiguity in Eastern Culture: The customs, literature, poetry, art, and architecture of the East infuse daily life with layers of symbolism and conciseness. Symbolic expression becomes a means to transcend the limitations imposed by geography throughout history.
Fabric as a Metaphor: Fabrics in the artworks represent the suppression of individuality and identity. They take on varying forms—sometimes solid and heavy, like stone statues, and other times fluid and timeless, observing the world quietly through a small window.
Color and Form: Inspired by the land’s history, the artworks feature contrasting organic and geometric forms. The palette shifts between dense and earthy tones, reminiscent of destruction, and expansive, light hues symbolizing hope and freedom.
Stylistic Approach
Fusion of Techniques: By blending traditional and modern painting methods, the collection balances respect for tradition with innovative expression.
Symbolic Depth: The combination of contrasting forms and colors creates a layered narrative, inviting viewers to engage deeply with the themes of the collection.
Symbolism and Intent
The Hidden Identity collection visually explores the inner layers of human existence by merging reality and imagination. It takes viewers on a sensory journey to uncover untold stories of individuals burdened by geography and gender. Art becomes a way to release and express endless suffering—a universal experience that transcends boundaries. This new artistic geography bridges the inner and outer worlds, forging unbreakable connections among strangers united by shared emotions.
Conclusion
Through Hidden Identity, I aim to tell the stories of silenced voices while celebrating the resilience of women across borders. This collection serves as a testament to the enduring struggle for self-expression and identity amidst social and cultural constraints, creating a visual narrative that resonates universally.