N’SharLa
2024
Oil on Canvas
32” x 40”
 
The title “N’SharLa” is inspired by the word Inshallah (“if God wills it”) and incorporates the playful spelling of my full name: Nadia (Shar)mayne La(maani). It also reflects the meaning of my name, Nadia, which means Hope 🕊️.
 
As a Bajan-Moroccan artist raised in a single-parent household with my mum and older brother. I often reflect on my late father, who was Muslim. While growing up, I was exposed to both religions and cultures. Despite being christened, my dad still immersed me in his culture—putting henna on my hands and teaching me words in Arabic. One of the first words I learned was Inshallah, a word my dad encouraged me to use whenever I spoke of something I hoped for
 
Having been raised with parents from different homes and religious backgrounds, this painting seeks to challenge and connect the similarities between Christianity, Islam, and modern society. I’ve included scripture from my dad’s gravestone in the pillars of the arch, alongside symbols from my Bajan roots, representing the foundations that have shaped me over time. The hijab symbolises the women of Islam, while the fabric activates and anchors my Moroccan heritage.
 
The nudity, paired with elements of nature, reflects Christian symbolism from the story of Genesis, where Eve covers her body with plants after eating the forbidden fruit. In her quest for knowledge, Eve becomes aware of her nakedness and seeks to cover herself, a gesture that mirrors the Islamic concept of “awrah”, referring to parts of the body that should remain clothed. My painting intentionally engages with this tension, as the figure is unclothed, symbolising both Eve’s curiosity and disobedience to divine will, while subtly nodding to Islamic modesty.
 
I’ve always been intrigued by the juxtaposition and irony between these two religious narratives..
 
⚠️ [Disclaimer] ⚠️
 
I recognise that this painting may provoke controversy, particularly within the Islamic community, due to its nudity and symbolism. However, this work represents my personal artistic perspective and way of freely expressing my story through a creative lens.
 
 
N’SharLa - No weapon formed against me shall prosper🙏🏽