A sense of belonging

A new exhibition created by 20 artists draws on home and heritage, writes RUTH MILLINGTON

- RUTH MILLINGTON

ABSORBED in her work, a woman sews quietly in 'Silent Thoughts no. 1' by Birmingham-based Iranian painter Anisa Mosaiebiniya.

She's one of 20 artists currently exhibiting in 'Belongings,' a new exhibition that explores themes of home and heritage at Solihull's Courtyard Gallery.

Framing the beauty of introspective moments, Mosaiebiniya’s practice has been shaped by her lived experience across continents, where she has connected with women from diverse cultures, whose stories have often been silenced by judgment.

"This exhibition has offered me a place to show how my identity is not one simple story. Rather, we are made of many parts. We belong to many moments. I want my paintings to share some of these layers."

Another artist exploring women's lives in the home is Fiona Carr, whose selection of floral, wallpaper-layered paintings whisper secrets about family histories.

In contrast, grand architectural sites emerge as spaces of sanctuary in Suminder Virk’s vibrant painted series: India’s buildings connect to her heritage, while her painting technique echoes traditional Henna tattooing, which holds familial significance.