Shifting Identities – Fatima Barznge

Since 2017 the square is my subject and all works are made in a square format. The underlying idea and inspiration for this subject is the square found in geometric Islamic art, in which it is the foundational form of elaborate patterns in architecture, tiles, mosaics, wall decorations, textiles…etc.
In my work, I take this idea and I make it my own.

Study of Square To my generation

The idea behind this series of works comes from the form in which within the Islamic tradition/generation of my parents, the name of god is decorated on tiles, on other materials and objects as a souvenir. Decoration and souvenir are linked to and symbolize the journey and paradise. Thus 99 names of God are depicted, to carry god close and remember him. I transfer this principle to my situation where I have painted on paper 100 names of people whom I personally appreciate and want to keep close. People who had and have made an impression on me. Names that I have a particular memory of in the past. These names are of Middle Eastern and Western artists, writers, philosophers, scientists, poets, composers, directors, actors and singers. In this work, I also show how East and West inspire each other with some of the names.

Fatima Barznge

Study of Square/ To my generation, acrylic and Pencil on paper, 15 x 15 cm (100x), 2020
Collection Stedelijk museum Schiedam NL

Detail from Study of Square/ To my generation