Mehreen Ali
Red String Series, Watercolor and Gold foil
Red String Series
In the Red Strings series, I explore the complex emotions that arise from limited freedom in an unfamiliar and constraining land. Being a person of a different race in a community that doesn't reflect my cultural identity, these pieces convey a deep sense of perpetual outsiderhood. They depict a world where the uncontrollable aspects of one's race constantly reinforce feelings of otherness and inferiority. The red thread symbolizes the constricting boundaries in a foreign society, evoking the desire for wings to escape to a place where one feels more accepted.
Inspiration
As an avid observer, I draw inspiration from the diverse tapestry of people and the ever-evolving world around me. In my artistic journey, I aim to uncover the profound beauty hidden within the smallest, often overlooked details of life. My deep affection for the human form drives my creativity, and I am driven to infuse my work with figures, capturing the essence of humanity in its purest forms. Each brush-stroke in my art is an attempt to bridge the tangible and the ethereal, aiming to capture the essence of our shared existence with a touch of fantasy.
Biography
As a fourth-year student in Visual Studies at the University of Calgary, I am on a journey of self-discovery through the world of art. Born and raised in Canada with Pakistani roots, my cultural background infuses my work with a diversity of influences. Recently, I have found a deep passion for watercolor, weaving in supernatural elements and the essence of cultural Asian art. This artistic exploration serves as a bridge between my heritage and newfound inspirations, allowing me to create a unique visual narrative that reflects my personal and cultural journey, while incorporating elements that inspire me everyday.