Sabr I

Ink and watercolour on xuan paper, with brocade silk hanging scroll mounting by the artist
1250 × 480 mm (when displayed)
480 × 50 × 40 mm (rolled for storage)
2026

Sabr I marks one of the artist’s earliest explorations into the dialogue between Chinese ink painting traditions and Arabic calligraphy. The cactus is rendered through the splash ink technique, with varying ink tones creating its volume, texture, and organic form. Integrated into its branch is the Arabic word sabr (صبر), meaning patience and perseverance, rendered in the broad-stroke style of Sini script.

The work draws upon the shared linguistic root between sabr and the Arabic word for cactus, reflecting a deep connection between language and nature. For the artist, the work serves as a personal reminder to remain composed, patient, and trusting throughout her journey of artistic growth.