The Trauma Painting

This painting is a reflection of an emotion—a day when I felt an overwhelming sadness but couldn’t understand its source. During a therapy session, I realized it was the third anniversary of my car accident. Trauma lingers in the subconscious, manifesting as anxiety or unease, often without us realizing its origin. If left unacknowledged, it can silently harm us.

I created this piece to capture that feeling—for myself and for you, who choose to own it—as a reminder that every experience we’ve endured remains within us. We must bring them out of the darkness, confront them, and allow healing to take place.

The painting consists of multiple layers of Persian calligraphy—letters and words interwoven with memory. Many of these layers are hidden, just like the depths of the subconscious, veiled in darkness yet ever-present.

The use of velvet powder adds a tactile softness, symbolizing that when we face our fears, they need not wound us. Instead, they can be gentle. Touch them. Do not be afraid.