Concept
My visual effort in this piece looks into themes of belonging, community, and togetherness, contrasted with the freedom and introspection found in solitude. In an increasingly loud and chaotic world, where ideas and expressions often risk becoming diluted into clichés, there arises a deep human need—especially among intellectuals and creatives—to step away from the noise. This retreat into solitude offers space for genuine reflection, a chance to rediscover meaning, and an opportunity to engage with ideas on a more profound level.
Visual style
This illustration borrows from the style of Safavid miniatures but incorporates a modern, minimalist approach. I used a muted desert palette with a stark black sun to create a sense of quiet unease and reflection. The flowing bilingual typography, in Persian and English, serves both as a visual and narrative element, leading the viewer through the composition. The crowd of figures in the distance creates a contrast between isolation and connection, while the thorny branches in the foreground symbolise obstacles or internal struggles. The small bird adds a final touch, hinting at themes of solitude or resilience.
