Izzah Awan, Pakistan

Allah-u-Akbar' is a phrase (takbeer) very near to my heart, unfortunately it is also one of the most wrongfully villainized phrases in the world. Calligraphed it one morning in Ramadan. The takbeer which translates to "Allah (God) is Greater" is the gold string by which the universe is bound, it is what in my religion we first hear at our birth as we enter this world, and what we shall hear when we exit it at the funeral. It is the ultimate reprise. Incorporated the circle shaped canvas and spiralling calligraphy for that reason too. It is also one of the strongest pillars of my faith, because whatever comes your way, whatever happens, throughout small moments and big ones, throughout moments of grief and elation- these words offer me comfort; Allah is Greater. Allah-u-Akbar. There is minor detailed calligraphy within the main alphabets as well, that translates to "Allah (God) is Great, the Greatest, and praise belongs to Allah in abundance, and glorified be Allah at the beginning and end of the day."

Izzah Awan believes the world of art and words she has constructed will salvage her. When not in the throes of academic ordeals, she reads, creates, and ruminates - voraciously.