About The Artwork

“This artwork originated from a series I created during a residency in Brussels, where I had limited time to work. As a result, it possesses a raw and organic quality, reflecting a sense of freedom. This residency marked the beginning of my experimentation with collages from my journals. Utilizing oil pastels, I found a medium that allowed me to express raw, undefined energy directly through my hand onto the material, rather than mediated by a paintbrush or tool. The lines at the bottom of the piece emerged during a challenging period when I contracted COVID-19. Creating these lines became a form of therapeutic expression during that time. The central figure in the artwork is a princess whom I have depicted for years, symbolizing a warrior queen to me. She lies amidst the healing plant, a motif prevalent in my previous body of work. This portrayal encapsulates my belief in the inherent healing power of nature and the resilience of the human spirit. For me, the essence of this artwork lies in the recognition that our true center as humans resides in our spirit. It’s a reminder of the importance of finding inner peace amidst life’s challenges. Through this piece, I aimed to convey a message of medicine intertwined with tranquility, emphasizing the enduring presence of our spirits and the necessity of nurturing our inner peace.” – Hana Shahnavaz