Orange Juice | 48x60
This artwork merges two distinct world—the fierce resolve of Akira Kurosawa's The Seven Samurai and the intricate vibrancy of Indian sounds and artistry. The painting, a testament to cultural storytelling, captures the essence of protection, honor, and spiritual identity.
The central figure, adorned with a crown of abstract geometry and floral elements, is a reimagining of the samurai’s protective role. The bold, red lines across the face mimic the warrior’s mask, yet also evoke the intricate henna patterns of Indian tradition. The three eyes, one nestled on the forehead, suggest heightened awareness—a nod to both the wisdom of the samurai and the spiritual symbolism of the third eye in Indian culture.
The vibrant background of swirling oranges and blues mirrors the clash of energies in The Seven Samurai, where the samurai defend their village amidst chaos. The circular motifs are inspired by traditional Indian mandalas, symbolizing unity and protection, while the bold fabric-like patterns reflect the rich textiles of Indian art. The intricate repetition of shapes and textures parallels the rhythm of Indian sounds—tabla beats, sitar strings, and chanting—all of which underscore a harmony that contrasts with the samurai's tumultuous journey. The blending of these influences serves to remind us that resilience, community, and artistry transcend borders, coming together to create a powerful, layered narrative.
Backwards Frame | 60x60
Portrayal of solitude and identity, deeply inspired by the flowing rhythms of Arabic sounds and the visceral, hollow sensation of emptiness. The figure, faceless and enigmatic, sits in a confined yet regal posture, suggesting both a profound presence and an absence that echoes across the canvas.The bold red backdrop, reminiscent of deep emotion and unspoken intensity, evokes the haunting notes of an oud or the reverberating chants of a maqam. It surrounds the central figure, pressing in like the weight of isolation, yet also amplifies the golden hues of the robe. The robe, painted in earthy yellows, suggests a richness of tradition and a history steeped in cultural narrative, though it remains uninhabited by vitality.
The red fez atop the figure’s head is both a marker of heritage and a symbol of identity—its vibrancy contrasting the muted demeanor of the figure below. The delicately placed embellishments, like the embroidered shoulders and the skeletal hand resting quietly, speak to a sense of longing for connection and expression. This skeletal hand is a stark reminder of fragility, as though the figure is holding onto existence with the faintest grasp.
The small vase of pale textures on the table introduces an element of softness, its organic forms inspired by Arabic ornamental design. Yet, it too feels incomplete—like a whisper of life that doesn’t quite fill the void. Together, the elements of this painting embody the juxtaposition of rich cultural sounds and the emptiness that lingers in their wake, creating a powerful narrative about what is seen, heard, and deeply felt.
Year of the Dragon | 48x60
This piece became the cornerstone of my collection, a bold and symbolic leap into a body of work that I had been envisioning for years. It was created during the Year of the Dragon—a year that holds deep significance for me. The dragon, a powerful emblem in Asian culture, symbolizes strength, transformation, and the pursuit of greatness. It felt only fitting to channel that energy into this piece, which marks the beginning of a series that pays homage to the richness of Asian cinema and its profound influence on my life.
As I worked on this piece, I found myself immersed in the textures, stories, and visual poetry that define the craft of Asian cinema. From the sweeping cinematography of historical epics to the intimate, nuanced moments of contemporary storytelling, I sought to capture the same sense of awe and artistry within mymedium. This work not only reflects my admiration for those films but also ties back to my own heritage, bridging the past and present in a way that feels deeply personal.
This piece is not just the opening chapter of the collection—it’s a declaration of intent. It sets the tone for a journey through themes of resilience, identity, and the craft that weaves communities together. By exploring these narratives, I hope to highlight the beauty of Asian storytelling and the profound impact it has had on my own creative path. This piece is the dragon taking flight, a symbol of the power and potential that lies ahead in this series.
Banana Boat | 48x60
This artwork is a deeply personal self-portrait, capturing the essence of who I am in this moment—a spiritual timestamp of my journey and emotions. It is a vibrant tapestry of identity, inspired by the soulful harmonies of jazz, specifically the resonating sounds of the saxophone and piano from cultures across the globe. Each brushstroke and pattern reflects the interplay between improvisation and structure, much like the music that inspired it.
The bold pinks and greens create a dynamic rhythm that mirrors the ebb and flow of emotions within me—an exploration of both chaos and calm. The intricate swirls and lines etched into the background serve as a visual representation of the melodies that often play in my mind, weaving together stories of growth, resilience, and self-discovery. The larger-than-life flower emerging from my hair symbolizes blossoming creativity and the spiritual awakening I’ve experienced through art and sound.
The portrait is intentionally fragmented yet whole, reflecting the complexities of self-perception. The abstract facial lines and rich, dark tones of my features anchor the piece, reminding me of the grounding strength I carry. The bananas hanging gently in the corner add a surreal touch, symbolizing humor, nourishment, and the unexpected elements that shape us.
This piece is not just a reflection of who I am but also a love letter to the global jazz culture that has profoundly influenced me. The saxophone’s deep, yearning notes and the piano’s elegant chords are embodied in the movement and energy of the painting, translating sound into color and form. It stands as a celebration of spiritual growth, individuality, and the music that breathes life into my creative soul.
Map Out | 48x60
The image is a study in red—a bold, unyielding hue that captures the raw intensity of human emotion. Rope weaves its way through the composition, both binding and unraveling, symbolizing the threads of interconnectedness that tie us to one another. Each strand tells a story, stretching across relationships, experiences, and moments that shape who we are. The rope is taut in some areas, frayed in others, reflecting the dualities of closeness and distance, unity and separation.
Red dominates the image, its rich tones representing passion, love, anger, and the undeniable force of growth. The background fades into textured layers, creating a sense of depth that mirrors the complexity of human connections. The rope appears suspended— sometimes coiled tightly, sometimes loose and winding—as if caught in a moment of transformation. This visual dynamic evokes the gap stages of growth: the spaces between what we were, what we are, and what we will become. These gaps, though difficult to traverse, are where we find meaning, where we struggle and stretch into something new.
The image as a whole is a meditation on how relationships and personal evolution are inextricably linked. While the rope may tether us to others, it also acts as a lifeline, pulling us forward through the uncertainty of change. Its unbroken presence in the composition is a reminder that even in the most disconnected moments, the threads of connection remain, guiding us toward greater understanding, healing, and growth. It is a testament to the beauty of being tied—not just to others, but to the ever-evolving story of ourselves.