In this work I carry a sound that locates me—the sound of my grandmother (Najwa) whose loving words have always grounded me spiritually, especially during my relocation to the US. I collected the voice messages she sent on WhatsApp and layered them with sounds from my home in Dubai to create a soundscape evoking a sense of belonging which is also fraught with the pain and distance of immigration, hers and mine. Along the softness and brittleness of her voice and the lineage of sewing, I also borrowed from the floral designs found in the traditional Syrian Aghabani embroidery to create a colorful hanging garden that offers a space of respite and caretaking in her memory.

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                  Najwa

Origin:       Arabic

Meaning:  Secret conversation, whispers

                  Inner dialogue
                  Private counsel
                  Intimate conversation with God
                  Earnest but quiet prayer
                  Hidden feelings, emotional secrets
                  Stage of passionate longing in love
                  Emotional refuge or soul’s escape
                  Whispered sadness or silent pain
                  Calling out to someone in secret
                  Seclusion or safe distance from harm