“My latest art collection, "Silent Echoes," reflects my journey of overcoming challenges and finding strength within. Born and raised in Germany, with roots in both Somalia and Germany, the contrast between these cultures has profoundly influenced my artistic path, shaped by their diverse beliefs, traditions, and values. Life experiences, such as dealing with loss, seeking self-protection, and pursuing freedom, have significantly built "Silent Echoes," imbuing it with a deeply personal narrative.
Growing up, the stark contrast between my Somali mother's Muslim upbringing and my German father's atheistic beliefs created a profound sense of dissonance in my understanding of the world. While my mother's family tried to instill their faith and values in me, my father offered a contradictory perspective. Struggling to align myself with either culture, I found myself in a constant state of self-discovery, and questioning the notions of right and wrong.
Early and repeated experiences with loss strongly ingrained themes of safety and protection. Working on Silent Echoes, I felt a deep sense of isolation. However, this phase wasn't just about enduring hardships; it turned into my main source of inspiration. The pain, intense yet captivating, sparking a remarkable wave of creativity and personal growth.
In this collection, the underpainting remains visible beneath the initial layer of oil paint, creating a sense of depth. I applied multiple thin layers of oil paint on canvases of different sizes, using earthy tones reminiscent of the woods to evoke my feelings of grounding and a yearning for something more. The paintings showing Doberman dogs, either solitary or in groups, expressing a range of emotions and encouraging viewers to form their own interpretations. Dobermans, known for their protective loyalty, can seem imposing yet majestic — capturing the collection's essence.
Silent Echoes became a journey of healing and reopening old wounds. It became my intimate diary, reflecting my emotions and the voids within. The collection began with sketches in my childhood room at my father's house in December 2023. I completed the final piece on the day that marked his passing in April 2024. It's striking how deeply pain and love can coexist, how loss and solitude fuel creativity, yielding a sense of fulfillment. This collection isn't a plea for sympathy; instead, it embodies pure and raw personal inspiration, embracing transformation—a powerful shield I've crafted for myself, much like a Doberman protecting its owner.”
2024
