Fiza Shahid

“Hidden Beauty” is inspired by architectural components found in both traditional western gothic and eastern European constructions, as well as influences of the natural transformation of flora. This work aims to convey meanings through emotions, emphasizing the exploration of spirituality and subconscious, which often is overlooked. The use of colour and design within this piece represents a spiritual blossoming, similar to how a flower develops and unfolds. The progression from yellow to gold and the eventuality of white symbolizes a transformative journey. Yellow serves as homage to admire the beauty in nature, gold embodies the concept of prosperity and success, which ultimately leads to happiness, however the transformation into white signifies purity and cleanliness, representing the true essence of Islam.

My fascination with intricate themes of symmetry and earthy tones, allow me to create alternative interpretations, whilst still emphasizing its origins and methodology through the skills in use. The headpiece is enveloped in traditional hand embroidery techniques which are embedded with deep ancestral history. Techniques such as goldwork, tambour, Stump work, and contemporised blackwork stitches, harmonized to illustrate a spiritual bloom in one’s life. Each panel is crafted and embellished individually, and skilfully constructed together to give the appearance of a status symbol – a Crown.