The first painting in the series “Between Roots and Horizons”, which parallels the stages of cell division with the stages of my migration journey.

This painting captures a cell in prophase, poised at the beginning of division. For me, this moment represents a threshold: the quiet spark of a life-altering thought: the idea of leaving Iran. I was still rooted in my homeland, surrounded by the rich beauty of my culture, yet under increasing societal pressure, especially as a woman. Something within me had begun to shift.

Acrylic on canvas, 40 x 50 x 4 cm (16 × 20 × 1.5 in, approx.). Varnished with Golden MSA Satin Varnish (UV-protective).