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Sometimes a work of art stays in your mind’s eye for a long time and after seeing a haunting watercolour image dedicated to the Baha’i heroine Tahirih, I needed to find out more.
I love the colours and the soft vibrancy of Maryam’s work. Below is a small gallery of her paintings, as well a little bit of information about what inspires her and why art is important:
Could you tell us a little bit about yourself?
My name is Maryam. I live in the beautiful, flourishing Almaty city, Kazakhstan.
I became a Baha’i in 1997.
I have three children and a loving husband.
I have been drawing since childhood, and received an art education.
Could you please tell us a little about your art?
In my paintings I strive to convey an idea, a meaning and the mood. The painting must excite, attract the viewer and touch their heart.
What media do you use?
I use acrylic paints, watercolour and oil paint, also ink and pastel. Sometimes I like to mix media.
What inspires you to create?
Nothing can inspire me more than the Writings and history of the Baha’i Faith, as well as feelings close about motherhood, family, love and the beauty of nature.
Music also inspires me to create. I also compose music for prayers and quotations from the Baha’i Writings.
What words of encouragement would you like to share with other artists?
Abdu’l-Baha said…: “All Art is a gift of the Holy Spirit. When this light shines through the mind of a musician, it manifests itself in beautiful harmonies. Again, shining through the mind of a poet, it is seen in fine poetry and poetic prose. When the Light of the Sun of Truth inspires the mind of a painter, he produces marvellous pictures. These gifts are fulfilling their highest purpose, when showing forth the praise of God.”1
Thank you, Maryam, for taking the time to share this with us.
Follow Maryam on Instagram to see more of her art.
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Horizons is an online magazine of news, stories and reflections from around individuals, communities
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Baha’i beliefs address essential spiritual themes for humanity’s collective and individual advancement. Learn more about these and more.
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Absolutely gorgeous art. Thanks so much for sharing it with the world!
Lorraine Manifold (November 11, 2022 at 9:46 AM)
Love Maryam’s paintings! Wishing her to keep finding inspiration in the Writings and share her amazing art with the world.
Takhmina (November 11, 2022 at 5:19 PM)