I am a Mumbai-based watercolour artist, reimagining traditional patterns and motifs through innovative angular perspectives. My artistic approach incorporates biomorphic patterns within geometric grids, using these frameworks to reinterpret sacred forms through imaginative angles.

I believe that geometry embodies the pursuit of الاتقان (itqan)—an Arabic word meaning "precision." However, I challenge the idea of perfect representation, viewing my art as a reflection of the Creator’s creation, always acknowledging that it can never be replicated in its absolute, flawless form.

To me, light is the medium that reveals creation on earth, while the human eye—the lens to the world—introduces a layer of distortion, diminishing the precision of the original form. Furthermore, the "eye of the intellect" adds another layer of interpretation and distortion to this perception.

Once inspiration strikes, I can’t wait to put a brush to canvas. My work blends the rigour of traditional methods such as geometric reconstruction with the fluidity of watercolours, giving rise to my signature style.

I spent time training in Cairo, Egypt, studying under Professor Georges Fikry at the Kulliyya al-Funun (Faculty of Arts at Helwan University). There, I learned to paint Islamic architecture and monuments through various perspectives and mediums, including pastels, acrylics, charcoal, watercolours, and mixed media. This experience led to a collection of artworks featured in later volumes of a series on Fatimi masjids, including Al-Aqmar: A Living Testimony to the Fatemieen, Al-Juyushi: A Vision of the Fatemiyeen, and Al-Jami Al Anwar: The Luminous Masjid.

My art bridges the past and present, fusing philosophy with contemporary expressions. Each piece creates a space where rich intellectual traditions merge with modern innovation, fostering dialogue between history, philosophy, and creativity.

I hold a Master’s in Islamic Jurisprudence from Aljamea-tus-Saifiyah Arabic Academy and a doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Bristol that involved immersive field research in the cultural context of the Haraaz region of Yemen. My dissertation focused on identifying the capabilities and aspirations of Haraazi women.

My extensive travels across the world continue to help me understand the diverse capabilities and aspirations of women from my community. I see art as a powerful channel for the intellectual exploration and exposition of culture. This motivated me to establish RadiantArts, a platform dedicated to promoting Dawoodi Bohra artists and culture. Through artistic and intellectual expression, this initiative celebrates our shared human values and goals.

My work has been featured and exhibited in Mumbai, Indore, Surat, Delhi, Dubai, Sharjah, Mombasa, Nairobi, Karachi, and Cairo.

Zaenab Imaduddin

Founder and Director, RadiantArts