Tazeen Qayyum's political miniaturism
Oakville, Ont. visual artist Tazeen Qayyum trained as a miniaturist in her native Pakistan.
"Its Complicated" (2010). Artist Tazeen Qayyum says "The hot-water bottle, generally associated with comfort, serves as a metaphor for the female body in my work. The series 'Its Complicated' examines the challenges and everyday struggle of a universal woman and its commonality across cultures."Tazeen Qayyum, courtesy of the artist
"Test on a Small Area Before Use III" (2007). Opaque watercolor, entomology pins, labels and cotton thread on wasli (archival paper) in wooden display case. Of these pieces, artist Tazeen Qayyum says "My work comments on aggressive global politics and the subsequent suppression of difference. Borrowing the language of entomology museum displays, a dead cockroach motif is repeated or opened up for investigation, to simultaneously attract and repulse; commenting on human rights violations, fatalities and fear as a result of wars of our times."Tazeen Qayyum, courtesy of the artist
"A Journey Unfinished" (2008). Opaque watercolour and entomology pins on wasli (archival paper).Tazeen Qayyum, courtesy of the artist
"Avoid Prolonged Exposure" (2008). Opaque watercolor on wasli (archival paper).Tazeen Qayyum, courtesy of the artist