
Exploring Islamic and Geometric Patterns: My Artistic Practice Inspired by the Silk Road
Sana MaulviMy artistic practice is rooted in the rich visual heritage of Islamic and geometric patterns—motifs that travelled and transformed across cultures during the era of the Silk Road. This historic network was more than a trade route; it was a channel for exchanging art, knowledge, and spiritual ideas that still echo through time.
I’m particularly inspired by the intricate designs found in Persian tile work, Moroccan Zellige, and Ottoman ceramics—each reflecting a deep connection between mathematics, spirituality, and craftsmanship. These patterns carry meaning beyond aesthetics, speaking to a universal sense of order, balance, and unity.
Currently, I’m on a journey of experimentation—exploring how these patterns can be reimagined across different mediums and techniques. I’m learning from a range of skilled craftsmen and artists, gaining new skills in painting, etching, carving, moulding,
and glazing. Through this process, I’m discovering how each material—whether clay, wood, glass, or canvas—brings its own unique character to the work.
This evolving practice is both a tribute to the past and a personal exploration of how tradition and contemporary expression can meet. It’s a journey of continual learning, growth, and connection through pattern and form.