Art as Activism

A lamp in a niche:

In these dark times of war and oppression, the Light of Allah shines bright like the North Star. Ever present, not fading and the ultimate source of guidance.

A reminder that the light and love of Allah is the place to turn to when feeling lost, and in despair. Helplessness can be overpowering, yet trusting that it is all part of His ultimate plan is a vital part of faith. 

I have painted the Key of Return on this piece, as a symbol of the promise of Allah, that the land will truly belong to the Palestinian people and not to the oppressors.

Lover of beauty:

This painting is a reminder that beauty can be found even in the darkest of places. Our deen is one of peace, love and brotherhood. This piece is a symbol of how important it is to be a source of beauty and light for others. 

Standing side by side with the Palestinian people is what brings beauty to our faith. This brotherhood and unity is what will elevate us as a nation. 

The symbol painted on this pieces is a dove with a Palestinian flag as it’s colours, carrying an olive branch, as a message of resilience in the face of oppression.

Sufficient is He:

The dua to be prayed at times of adversity is lettered on this pair of paintings - Hasbunallahu wa ni’mal wakeel.  

A reminder that Allahs plan is the greatest. Only He knows why things are unfolding the way they are. He has power over all things, and if He so wished, He could destroy the oppressors in an instant. 

Although it may be difficult, we need to surrender it all to Him, trust in His plan and know that it will all be ok.

Better days will come:

Again, a reminder that with hardship will surely come ease.  I have written “heroes do not wear capes” on this painting in acknowledgement of the sacrifice, resilience and strength of those on the ground, whether they may be medical staff, journalists, or even humanitarian aid workers.

These heroes have endured so much difficulty and emotional trauma by being first hand witnesses to brutal acts of violence. Yet they are selfless enough to share their journeys in order to amplify the voices of the Palestinian people.

My parents, my pride:

At a time when entire generations and bloodlines are being obliterated, take account and appreciate your loved ones. Elevate the status of your parents. Give them the love and care that they deserve  Honour them and all that they have done for you  

I have painted a catapult with a stone in it, in memorial of young kids courageous enough to face huge army tanks with these small pebbles. An ode to the story of David and Goliath 

 In gratitude to You:

So which of Allahs favours will you deny?

How can we be anything BUT grateful for the littlest of things that we have?

Witnessing a Genocide in real time, brings about feeling of sorrow for our people, yet also humility and gratitude for the smallest of things we have access to, yet tend to take for granted.

 A search for refuge:

Taking refuge in the might and power of Allah, and renewing your vow of allegiance to Him.

These surahs are an expression of dependency on His power and might and acceptance that all difficulty can only be overcome by seeking refuge in Him.

Featuring Surah Falaq and Surah An-Naas

 Total submission:

Featuring  the Dua uttered by Prophet Yunus AS while he was stuck in the belly of the whale. 

A symbolism for how although things may seem hopeless, and you cannot see a way out, trusting in Allahs mercy and plan, and saying this supplication is a practice of the Prophets. 

I have painted poppies on this piece, to symbolise the importance they hold as being the National flower of Palestine.

The poppy flower is a symbol of the martyr's sacrifice embedded in the land.

I am near:

The biggest painting in this collection. Painted over many times and as result of this, the textures are rough and rocky and a perfect symbolism of the destruction which has happened in Palestine. 

I have painted a number of circular shapes, each with different messages embodied within them, yet all as a symbol of the sun shining after the dark night. 

I have painted numerous symbols within this piece:

- a poem by Khaled Juma, “Oh rascal children of Gaza”

- an olive branch within the historical map of palestine

-tatreez patterns

- the keffiyeh pattern

The verses lettered in this piece are :

وإذا سالك عبادي عني فاني قريب

نصر من الله و فتح قريب

حسبنا الله و نعم الوكيل

There are many many layers, and I’d love for you to discover them all as they tell the story of reliance on Allah, and love for His closeness only

Collection drops on May 30th, 9 AM UK time as early access to newsletter subs