Zaynab Ahmed’s creativity is heightened and art deepened by the Holy Month

Zaynab Ahmed, who is a student in Amity University, Dubai, is also a recognised artist. For her, as for many other artists, Ramadan is an inspirational time to create works that reflect the beauty and spirituality of the Holy Month. Art and spirituality are intimately linked, and their blending has produced some of humanity’s most sublime and enduring expressions of artistry. Zaynab Ahmed describes to Gulf Today how Ramadan becomes a studio for her spiritual art

How can the spirituality of Ramadan be represented by art?

Since the spiritual aspects of Ramadan stem from one’s Iman (Faith), its representation in art would be through depictions that tap into it. I find that the most emotional images tend to be the most commonly found, such as the painting of the hands making dua (supplication). It is a sight so common, it is often overlooked. But by painting it in an impactful way, I have managed to capture its deep significance.

Zaynab Ahmed is based in the UAE.

Is it symbolism or realism that factually presents the values of Ramadan? Or both, in their own ways?

I see a balance between the two that coexists in a way that not only presents the values of Ramadan, but also underscores them. The realism taps into the more logical side of a person’s thoughts, while symbolism pushes the boundaries of those thoughts and provokes a person to think deeper about how they relate to himself. For example, in my painting of the night sky through a window, the realism is represented by the full moon and the burning oil lamp, which are cultural markers of Ramadan. But the symbolism is in the picturisation of the night sky, which is representative of Laylat al-Qadr (Night of Power, when the Quran was first sent down from heaven). It is paired with the light I installed to make the oil lamp glow even more brightly, to highlight the importance of the night.

Are secular art and spiritual art organically linked?

In my opinion, they are linked, as they are both characterised by one factor - religion. They exist as mirrors of each other, and both take inspiration from the real world and present it through their own narratives. Religion is what society has always incorporated into its foundations; it bridges the two art styles together. Secular and spiritual art are two sides of the same coin.

Hands raised in supplication.

What, according to you, are the special qualities of the art that represents Ramadan?

I notice that Ramadan art tends to have a peaceful and inviting aesthetic. One that relaxes the heart of the viewer and works to promote connections within a community - which makes sense, as it is a month dedicated to worship through selfless action and the elimination of individuality. Ramadan reminds us that we are all one; that can be seen in the art as well.

Is Ramadan art a personal or a collective exploration for you? Or both?

I find the creation of Ramadan art to be a deeply personal exploration. I am a very intuitive person, and every piece I make, is reflective of some part of me. For me, Ramadan art is an opportunity to look inward and examine my faith, to see where I am strong and what I lack, and showcase it honestly.

How is art a means of contemplation and reflection?

In order to create art, an artist must be moved enough by a concept to want to capture and present it; that in itself speaks volumes of his intentions. If done correctly, an artwork will cause the viewer to contemplate the meaning of the piece and reflect on its relevance to his own life. It is a phenomenon that I try to achieve in my work.

The Night of Power.

Can you please tell us how calligraphy speaks for Ramadan?

Arabic calligraphy is its own art form; its complexity and beauty is mesmerising - which is why Quranic verses are written in a decorative manner with calligraphy. Calligraphy adds a profound feature to the values presented in Ramadan art, rooting it in Islamic beliefs. In my calligraphy paintings, I have quoted the Shahada, the simple phrase which declares the Muslim faith. Effectively, calligraphy speaks for the Holy Month.

Who are the artists who inspire you with their religious art?

I greatly appreciate Maaida Noor’s art style. She uses an array of bright colours to capture traditional Islamic patterns on watercolour backgrounds. Other than the perfection of her patterns, she also incorporates calligraphy into some of her pieces, using an array of contrasting and complementary colours that catches your eye. I’m also very inspired by Nawaf Aldossari. While he sticks to a striking black-and-white colour scheme, he incorporates heart drawings in multiple pieces, using it to convey religious meaning, which I greatly admire.

How does the ambience of the Holy Month impact your artmaking?

Just as everything else, I notice my pace slows down during this month. I find myself taking my time and pondering every little detail, wanting to perfect it. Additionally, my focus gets more concentrated on my work - which makes the experience of painting much more rich and spiritual. I find I am not as wasteful (in both resources and creativity) during fasting, and want to embed meaning in every inch of my canvas. Overall, Ramadan helps clear my mind and heighten my productivity level. Artmaking becomes a spiritual act and a daily habit, alongside worship.