Aramesh
Aramesh, which means “serenity” in Farsi, is a watercolor portrait from life of my mother: a powerful, Muslim, Iranian-American woman. My mother has endured pain and trauma throughout her life but stays strong to support those around her and inspires me. I decided to observe and paint her in the position I consider to be most powerful and honest: during prayer. She sits on her prayer rug, with her eyes closed, tasbih (prayer beads) in hand, whispering prayers or sometimes just sitting in silence. These moments are the ones where she allows herself to be vulnerable and reflective. My mother’s commitment to her faith despite negative perceptions of Islam reflects her resilience; her meditative reflection during prayer is what allows her to grow stronger and be resilient to challenges she encounters. I see immense power in her devotion.
Watercolor, 21.5x13.75 inches, 2019