Rubkirat, an artist captivated by the language of architecture, translates the stoicism of stone and steel into the vibrant realm of abstract art. Her process-based works, characterized by a symphony of lines and geometric shapes, find profound inspiration in the Mehrab, a recurring motif in Islamic historical architecture.
Rubkirat’s abstract vocabulary stems from a deep appreciation for the structured elegance of architecture. Unlike representational art that depicts the world around us, abstraction focuses on form, color, and composition, creating a visual language that resonates on a deeper, more emotional level. In Rubkirat’s case, the clean lines and geometric forms that constitute the architectural world become the building blocks of her artistic expression. This fascination with structure is evident in her choice of the Mehrab as a central motif.
The Mehrab, a niche in the wall of a mosque that indicates the direction of the Kaaba in Mecca, is a deeply symbolic element in Islamic architecture. It serves not just as an architectural detail but also as a potent focal point for prayer and contemplation. The inherent geometry of the Mehrab, often arched or rectangular, imbues it with a sense of balance and harmony. This inherent order seems to resonate with Rubkirat’s artistic sensibilities.
However, Rubkirat’s engagement with the Mehrab goes beyond mere aesthetics. In her own words, “the Mehrab reflects what she has gone through in her own life.” This quote hints at a deeper significance the Mehrab holds for the artist. Perhaps the structured form of the Mehrab reflects a yearning for stability amidst the complexities of life. The directionality embedded within the design might symbolize a journey of faith or a quest for meaning. It is possible that the Mehrab serves as a window to her own soul, a portal through which she expresses her innermost thoughts and experiences.
One can imagine Rubkirat’s creative process as a meditation on the Mehrab. She deconstructs its physical form, dissecting its lines and angles. Through this process of artistic exploration, she imbues the geometric shapes with new meaning. The rigidity of the architectural element gives way to a fluidity of line, shape and pattern. This transformation reflects a personal interpretation, a unique perspective on a symbol steeped in tradition.
The symbolic weight of the Mehrab in Islamic culture further enriches Rubkirat’s art. The Mehrab represents a connection to the divine, a space of spiritual focus. By incorporating this motif into her work, Rubkirat might be inviting viewers to contemplate the deeper aspects of existence. Her art transcends the realm of the purely aesthetic, prompting introspection and a consideration of the spiritual dimension within the structured world we inhabit.
Rubkirat’s artistic practice exemplifies the enduring power of architectural inspiration. By translating the essence of the Mehrab into the language of abstract art, she creates a dialogue between the physical world and the realm of the mind. Her work compels us to look beyond the surface of both architecture and art, to seek the deeper meanings and emotions that lie within. The Mehrab, in Rubkirat’s interpretation, ceases to be a mere architectural detail and transforms into a powerful symbol of structure, direction, and perhaps even a portal to the artist’s own spiritual journey.
Know more about Rubkirat and view more works here.