Dana Alnafouri

My work reflects an exploration of rhythm, motion, and the transient qualities of time, inspired by the forces of nature and the internal landscapes of thought and emotion. Through a focus on lines and textures, I aim to evoke sensations that go beyond the visual—air in motion, the warmth of sunligh...

My work reflects an exploration of rhythm, motion, and the transient qualities of time, inspired by the forces of nature and the internal landscapes of thought and emotion. Through a focus on lines and textures, I aim to evoke sensations that go beyond the visual—air in motion, the warmth of sunlight, or the cool stillness of shadow. These elements come together to suggest spaces that are alive, shifting, and filled with subtle energy.

Lines form the foundation of my practice, clustering and dispersing across the surface in organic flows. Their movement mirrors the cycles of nature—arising, dissolving, and transforming in a rhythmic dance. This flow reflects the unseen forces that shape our world, capturing the transient and evolving nature of existence. The interplay of space and form draws from the fluidity found in traditional Chinese landscape painting, emphasizing harmony and ongoing motion rather than fixed representation.

In some works, I incorporate fluorescent pigments that transform under UV light, revealing hidden layers and suggesting resilience and protection, much like the adaptations seen in deep-sea creatures. These beings, thriving in solitude within extreme environments, embody the balance between vulnerability and strength—a recurring theme in my art. This idea of protection within nature connects to broader explorations of how living beings navigate and adapt to their surroundings, offering subtle metaphors for human experience.

In other works, I turn to the tactile qualities of paper, using its simplicity to convey quieter moments of reflection and intimacy. Rather than depicting specific natural elements, my art captures the energy and rhythms that define the natural and internal worlds. Through these dynamic interactions, I aim to evoke a sense of connection to the ever-changing forces around and within us.