Ma.


Ma., a portrait of the artist's mother in brushstrokes, by Bonfelle

Part of the Byzantine Saga·See the full series

Part of Odes to Peace·See the full series

For more than 45 years, my mother has listened to me talk about everything and nothing, with the same gentle, undivided attention every single time.

This portrait is my attempt to paint that patience. It’s such an ordinary act that it’s easy to miss, and it’s the kind of love that holds everything else up.

Love you, Ma!

ماما

لأكثر من خمسة وأربعين عاماً استمعت إليّ أمي وأنا أتحدث عن كل شيء ولا شيء، بالانتباه اللطيف الكامل نفسه في كل مرة. هذه الصورة محاولتي لرسم ذلك الصبر؛ فعل عادي إلى حدّ أنه يسهل ألّا نلاحظه، وهو نوع الحب الذي يحمل كل ما عداه. أحبّك يا أمي!

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