Light upon light

Detail of a pattern
Image 1 of 1
IIIF

Terms of Use

Usage Conditions Apply

At A Glance

  • Period

    1998
  • Geography

    Iran
  • Material

    Graphite and acrylic paint on canvas
  • Dimension

    H x W: 70 x 70 cm (27 9/16 x 27 9/16 in)
  • Accession Number

    S1998.160
  • EDAN ID

    edanmdm:fsg_S1998.160

Object Details

  • Artist

    Shirazeh Houshiary (Iran, born 1955; active United Kingdom)
  • Label

    Houshiary's work presents a subtle fusion of her interest in minimalism and involvement in Sufism, the mystical branch of Islam, which advocates the annihilation of the Self as a means to enlightenment and divine love. Light upon light represents a gauzelike spiral with a bright, luminous core, reminiscent of images of distant stars and galaxies. While the visual impact of much contemporary art is direct and immediate, that of Houshiary's work, like a fine Persian calligraphy or manuscript painting, is gradual and subtle. It slowly draws in the viewer, inviting careful examination and quiet contemplation. Only then may he or she begin to realize that the spiralling form is entirely composed of the word Allah (God). Houshiary's mesmerizing work can be interpreted as a powerful visual parallel to the Sufi's quest for divine knowledge, which is attained by patience and understanding.
  • Collection

    National Museum of Asian Art Collection
  • Exhibition History

    Imaging the Word: Selections of Calligraphy from the Islamic World (November 17, 1999 to May 7, 2000)
  • Origin

    Iran
  • Credit Line

    Purchase — Smithsonian Unrestricted Trust Funds
  • Type

    Painting
  • Restrictions and Rights

    Usage Conditions Apply

    There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page.

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