In 'My Mother's Tender Script,' series I delve into the poignant narrative woven by
my late mother through her humble phone notebook. Born into a world that
allowed her no childhood, she married at the tender age of 11, bereaved by
widowhood at 15, and remarried my father at 17. Her story, shaped by hardship
and early responsibilities, echoes resilience and determination.
Despite a lack of formal education, my mother found solace and expression in the
kitchen, where she passionately honed her culinary skills, particularly in making
bread. It was amidst the warmth of the hearth and the kneading of dough that her
early story unfolded.
In contrast, my father, an erudite writer and journalist, led a life adorned with
education and cultural experiences. A world away from my mother's, his path was
adorned with receptions, travels around the globe, and literary engagements.
Perhaps my mother sought a convergence, a meeting at a crossroads. She
meticulously maintained her phone notebook, her personal treasure trove of
contacts and thoughts. She adorned herself with fashionable attire and practiced
writing and drawings in her notebook, expressing her longing for connection.
In making My Mother! 's Tender Script, I transformed a black-and-white print
from the late 1970s into an enlarged negative. I infused her delicate drawings and
writings from the phone notebook, seamlessly incorporating them before
employing the resino-pigmentype technique, invented in the mid-nineteenth
century.
This creative endeavor isn't merely about replicating the past; it's a tribute to the
resilience, struggles, and enduring legacy of my mother's indomitable spirit.
Asiya Al. Sharabi
Asiya Al Sharabi is a Yemeni/American Visual artist whose work has gained recognition
both nationally and internationally. Currently based in the US, she initiated her
career as a journalist and photographer before shifting her focus to artistic photography.
Her artistry is rooted in capturing the challenges faced by Middle Eastern women,
young adults, and immigrants, a perspective that profoundly influences her creations.
Her unique artistic expression thrives through photography, alternative photographer
processes, and innovative techniques like collage and inverse negative prints. These
methods not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of her creations but also delve into the
profound struggles experienced by people. Through her art, Asiya explores the intricate
interplay of politics, culture, and religion, shaping the identities of women, young
adults, and immigrants. She has been featured in various publications, including
Richmond Magazine, PBS NewsHour, and RVA Magazine.
Additionally, her artwork was showcased on the cover of Yemen Today magazine in
celebration of International Women's Day.
www.asiyaart.com
@asiyaart
www.facebook.com/asiyaalsharabi
