Hold me, I'm safe

Note from the studio

My oil painting series depicts my mother holding a pomegranate, which symbolises me, her daughter. In my interpretation, I intended to depict the duality of the profound love experienced as an only child, particularly within the diaspora, where one is distanced from relatives. This is conveyed through the gradual depiction of a pomegranate being encased by hand. However, the final piece, titled ‘Safe,’ represents the comforting aspect of maternal love, demonstrating that perceptions are not solely binary. It emphasises the tension between feeling like an object of parental pride and recognising that such love is rooted in protection and care. The slow emergence of yellow lights aims to emulate the 21 rays on the Kurdish flag. The increasing number of rays seeks to heighten the sense of claustrophobia. The sides of the artwork are printed using lino, featuring symbols such as the six-pointed star, which is associated with fertility and represents the mother's womb. A solitary diamond signifies a woman, while the snake, symbolising wisdom, can also be viewed as a guardian and protector. Additionally, henna was applied to the hands, inspired by my mother’s custom of using it as a substitute for nail polish during prayers—a ritual closely associated with her. I incorporated the circle in the centre of the palm, as it is a common motif in Middle Eastern cultures and is believed to enable the reception of blessings. This symbol is often seen at weddings or other significant celebrations; in this context, it signifies a celebration of life.