NINA ASHRAF

My artistic practice integrates Eastern traditions and Western ideals, reflecting my South Asian heritage. This series draws inspiration from the words of Sufi poet Rumi, but rather than illustrating or rewriting his poetry, I incorporate the essence of his words into my work. I am captivated by the lyrical and poetic quality of the line, and these works explore its application across diverse disciplines, time periods, and cultures, from cave drawings to Japanese haiku and calligraphy.

Over the past few years, I have delved into the Indo-Persian traditional art forms, which are intrinsically linked to the art of the book—where text and image intertwine. Inspired by 13th-century illuminated manuscripts, this series aims to convey a narrative without words, inviting interpretation.