Give Me

Space

I’m fascinated by Hoopoe, a significant figure from Farid Attar’s The Conference of the Birds. Hoopoe enticed all the birds to embark on a journey to meet Simorgh, a fantastical bird representing perfection. Hoopoe and the birds became one along the way, realizing that what they were searching for was unity. I see unity in Islamic geometric design, as each pattern is created from an indisputable circle. I singled out one pattern and placed it like a halo around the head of my imaginary Hoopoe, signifying sacredness. In this piece, poetry and imagery have exchanged positions; poetry becomes the decorative element containing the image. I’m calling on Hoopoe to make a comeback and offer its leadership for the unity of the world.