Zeina Iaali

Zeina Iaali’s art practice revolves around the meditative act of repetition - a process that transforms into both a ritual and a quiet act of resistance. Through her strong sensitivity to materiality and craftsmanship, she creates meticulous illustrations and sculptural works that delve into the concept of the nafs (self), exploring the purification of the mind as a means to reconnect with personal and ancestral histories.

Drawing on her training in jewellery and object design at COFA, Iaali creates intricate sculptural works that employ a range of traditional and industrial materials, including Perspex, wood, clay and metal. A key element of her practice is the use of layered hand and laser cut mirror Perspex, which allows her to explore ideas of reflection, fragmentation and shifting perspectives. Through the layering of reflective surfaces, Iaali creates works that interact dynamically with light and surrounding space to create multiple viewpoints.

Alongside her art practice, Iaali works full time as a secondary Visual Arts teacher, and is also a member of eleven, a collective of contemporary Muslim Australian arts practitioners. Key exhibitions include, Re-member at Fairfield City Museum and Gallery, Soul Fury at Bendigo Art Gallery and Enough خلص Khalas at UNSW Galleries and Waqt al-tagheer: Time of change at ACE.

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