Sughra Hussainy
My name is Sughra Hussainy, originally from Afghanistan. I specialize in traditional Afghan arts, particularly the intricate techniques of miniature painting and illumination. My artistic journey began at the esteemed Turquoise Mountain Institute in Kabul, where I delved deep into historic crafts that have long been integral to Afghan cultural expression. I further honed my skills and expanded my artistic vision at the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA), where I earned my master’s degree.
My art is a vibrant mosaic that blends historical craftsmanship with contemporary relevance. Each piece I create is deeply infused with respect for my heritage and serves as a testament to the resilience and beauty of Afghan culture. It showcases my technical skills and narrates stories of survival and hope against the backdrop of Afghanistan’s tumultuous history.
Artist Statement
My work draws from the traditions of Persian illumination and miniature painting, practices rooted in devotion, repetition, and meditation. I approach each piece as both prayer and storytelling—where ornament, pattern, and text embody the sacred. Through layering light, geometry, and narrative, I seek to hold memory, resilience, and the soul’s longing for beauty. These works invite reflection on spirituality not only as ritual, but as a shared human space of connection, healing, and hope.
Ayat-ul-Kursi
Ayat-ul-Kursi is important to Muslims because it describes Allah’s power, knowledge, and authority over all creation. Many recite it for protection, peace, and as a reminder of God’s constant presence. Through Persian illumination and miniature painting, I explore spirituality as devotion and storytelling. Each work becomes a meditation on memory, resilience, and the soul’s search for beauty and connection.
Sughra Hussainy, “Ayat-ul-Kursi”, 2018, 16x24”
Medium: Natural pigments on handmade paper
Emerald Sun
Sughra Hussainy, “Emerald Sun”, 2017, 13x13”
Medium: Natural pigments on handmade paper