I'm passionate about emotional expression, however it is difficult to do in Asian culture. When I am able to access emotions and meaning through art work, it feels free, like the image of a butterfly flying away. I'm curious about how we can facilitate safe discussions through the arts even if we are not therapy trained?

The process begins with the Battal pattern: a foundation of isolated pigment droplets resting on the water's surface. Each is a self-contained island of color, representing the unique and individual self.

Then comes the Gelgit—the graceful, flowing motion that draws lines through the stillness. This is the act of connection. As the pigments meet, they migrate and blend, transforming into a complex, interdependent whole. This interaction does not erase individuality; it enriches it.

My art aims to capture this transformation, framing it as a metaphor for a connected society. It is a vision of a world where our interactions have the power to transform us, making the collective far richer than the sum of its parts.

This process inspires a central question: if we can orchestrate such harmony on water, how can we, as a society, create more space for these beautiful connections? How do we ensure everyone has the access and opportunity to become part of the whole?

Grateful for every trial,

For they taught me patience and strength.

Grateful for every blessing,

For they reminded me of Allah’s mercy.

The truth always finds its way.

The past is behind me,

The future awaits with hope.

For Allah’s promise is certain. 🌸

Done by;

Nisa

This video is a recreation of an old drawing of mine: a crescent moon releasing stars into an open palm. That image has always felt special. It is a symbol of wonder and trust in the Universe and the cycle of Life. Using Canva, I reimagined it as moving imagery: colour changing as life transitions, and water flowing and stars flickering as small reminders of magic. The music was something I composed some time ago but hadn't found a home for...until now.

— Emie

This painting is of me and my late mom. Through art, I find a way to hold on to her presence: her smile, her warmth, and her love that continue to guide me. Creating this piece feels like keeping a conversation alive, a reminder that even though she is no longer here, her memory remains vivid and close to my heart. I wonder: how can we use art to heal and remember, even if we are not trained in art therapy?

I used to neglect loving myself, but through this drawing, I realised I need to love myself first so that I can let that love flow to others.

Every heart deserves to feel love and to share it.

Are you a sower of despair, or of hope?

Where is the light from, and where does it go?

Perhaps the answer is—both.

This painting is inspired by the belief that pain and brokenness can also become the roots of growth and hope. From the heart grows a tree— carrying wounds, yet still giving life.

Good and bad are both parts of life. To wither or to flourish is our choice. Even the smallest words can plant a seed in someone’s heart.

We are all sowers—sometimes of despair, sometimes of hope. A single word, a single gesture, may seem insignificant, yet it can grow into something that changes another person’s life.

Light, too, flows both ways. It can come from within, or from others. It can illuminate your own path, or extend to brighten someone else’s. You may never know who will find their way out of frame because of your words.

From wounds, light can grow.

Life influences life.

- Kim -

Growth doesn’t really have an ending - it keeps going, which is why I showed it as a cycle. The dark clouds and thunderstorms represent the beginning stages of life –whether it’s starting university, a first job, or a business/side hustle. These beginnings can feel messy and often come with failures.

With hope and resilience (represented by the sun) we eventually reach a stage where we start to see the fruits of our effort and perseverance.

But one flower isn’t the final goal. This artwork is also a reminder not to get complacent once we’ve overcome something we used to struggle with. Growth means continuing to step into unfamiliar and uncomfortable places – that’s how we grow more “flowers,” or in other words, more experiences and skills that shape us into a better person.

This piece reflects my own values of having a growth mindset, trusting the process, accepting imperfections, and honouring past achievements.

I hope this artwork can be a source of inspiration and a gentle reminder to keep embracing every stage of life and growth❤️‍🩹🕊️

By - SM

Normally, the process takes about 3 months but no... it took almost a year for me! Its enough to make the she-warrior doubt herself 🤔.

I sat through few exit interviews offering me more but when your heart is no longer there... money wasn't attractive. Nothing was. Breaking free was what I wanted. But... having almost exhausted my savings and at the mercy of my mum and sisters (asking them to support me if I fall monumentally flat on my face), the brave facade is crumbling.

My youngest sister suggested I join an art class. I initially was hessitant. I don't know where to start. I am no artist! She was like... 'Be there for your niece and nephews.', 'Find an art you would like to create.', 'Don't be scared.', 'They will help you.' and more. I decided I would give it a try.

I googled art.. took a few weeks... but I found my inspiration. Something I would like to create for myself. Something that resonated with what I was feeling... something that made me smile when it was hard. Something that made me feel light but with a renewed energy. Something... positive.

It took months to complete not because it was hard but it took a lot from me to just go to class. But when I am in it... I loved every minute! Time was a breeze! It not perfection but its simply gorgeous! My first canvas.

A colleague who later was my boss looked and asked if created it. I smiled proudly saying 'Yes.' He later asked the meaning behind it... I wasn't sure... I just said it felt right to do this while feeling in limbo.

What he said stuck with me and I guess he looked closer into my soul and I was stupefied. He said something like... 'You are looking from the outside showing a desire to get out. It signifies a positive outlook with beautiful flowers.' And I didn't know that was what it was but in a way he wasn't wrong.

This is rebirth - a brand new start despite the uncertainties and I can do this. And I will continue to do it.

~Meela~

I’m passionate about slowing down and taking time for myself. This artwork shows how I find peace in quiet moments, just sitting and reflecting. The bridge feels like a journey, and the book reminds me to love the life I have.

“A moment of stillness where inner reflection begins to glow, like daylight breaking through darkness.”