Various Small Fires 2024 | Shumaiya Khan I Original Painting
Artist: Shumaiya Khan
Shumaiya’s work is often intertwined with poetry, each piece existing in dialogue with the written word. However, this particular painting stands apart—its creation was not accompanied by verse, despite the artist’s usual inclination. Initially conceived in 2003 as a large, free-hanging three-meter composition, the piece evolved differently, shaped by what the artist describes as her own “impatience”. Built upon layers of acrylic, later veiled with oil, traces of its original form remain visible beneath the surface. Ten months in the making, the result is a commanding, deeply atmospheric canvas—its dark, smoldering presence speaking for itself. While words may yet find their place alongside it, for now, we are left to absorb the quiet intensity of its many small fires.
Oil on Semi Primed Canvas (Diptych)
260cm x 170cm.
Artist: Shumaiya Khan
Shumaiya’s work is often intertwined with poetry, each piece existing in dialogue with the written word. However, this particular painting stands apart—its creation was not accompanied by verse, despite the artist’s usual inclination. Initially conceived in 2003 as a large, free-hanging three-meter composition, the piece evolved differently, shaped by what the artist describes as her own “impatience”. Built upon layers of acrylic, later veiled with oil, traces of its original form remain visible beneath the surface. Ten months in the making, the result is a commanding, deeply atmospheric canvas—its dark, smoldering presence speaking for itself. While words may yet find their place alongside it, for now, we are left to absorb the quiet intensity of its many small fires.
Oil on Semi Primed Canvas (Diptych)
260cm x 170cm.
Artist: Shumaiya Khan
Shumaiya’s work is often intertwined with poetry, each piece existing in dialogue with the written word. However, this particular painting stands apart—its creation was not accompanied by verse, despite the artist’s usual inclination. Initially conceived in 2003 as a large, free-hanging three-meter composition, the piece evolved differently, shaped by what the artist describes as her own “impatience”. Built upon layers of acrylic, later veiled with oil, traces of its original form remain visible beneath the surface. Ten months in the making, the result is a commanding, deeply atmospheric canvas—its dark, smoldering presence speaking for itself. While words may yet find their place alongside it, for now, we are left to absorb the quiet intensity of its many small fires.
Oil on Semi Primed Canvas (Diptych)
260cm x 170cm.
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When encountering Shumaiyas work, one is immediately struck by the sheer scale of the canvases and the emotional intensity they command. Her abstract compositions possess a raw honesty, inviting an almost confrontational engagement. These paintings do not merely exist as visual experiences—they compel introspection, urging the viewer to look inward and engage with their own unspoken questions.
Sensual, spiritual, and profoundly visceral, Khan’s works occupy a space between atmosphere and expression, where colour and form resonate on a deeply emotional level. The result is an arresting synthesis of physicality and feeling, a visual language that lingers long after the moment of viewing.
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