Artist Integrates Pakistani Heritage into Wood Sculptural Embroidery
In the realm of Dallas-based creator Nosheen Iqbal, embroidery transcends the traditional fabric medium. Rather, its sculptural essence is integrated into mixed-media works deeply influenced by Iqbal’s Pakistani heritage: the craft traditions of Punjab and the intricate architecture distinctive to this locale.
According to her artist statement, Iqbal characterizes her creations as “an investigation of self-preservation and identity.” She draws inspiration from the visual motifs inherited from her culture, including vibrant hues and detailed patterns, grounding her artistic inquiries in tactile and visual experiences, which has resulted in her hallmark hand embroidery on wood. “My art extends across diverse planes,” she articulates, “creating botanical arabesques and geometric designs inspired by the stunning façades of Pakistani and Islamic structures, and influenced by the lively textiles of Punjab like Phulkari and Baagh.”
Iqbal’s inspiration is rooted not just in visual appeal but in the profound significance of the creative process itself. “Craftsmanship carries immense importance in Pakistani culture, where art is esteemed as a lifelong pursuit that defines identity and community,” she notes. “This reverence for detailed workmanship is vital to my artistic approach.” This philosophy also informs the materials she selects, as each component possesses cultural significance and contributes to the symbolic richness of every artwork.
A vibrant array of threads narrates a tale of duality. Frequently supported by a wooden base—whether rounded, square, floral-shaped, completely covered, or partially exposed—the threads interplay with light and shadow. In this manner, Iqbal presents a dynamic, physical sculpture that is not only captivating and visually compelling but also a testament to her ambition to innovate. “The colored lines in my thread work serve more than a decorative purpose; they are vivid pathways that expose their richness and intricacy as viewers navigate each piece, providing a changing experience of light, color, and connection,” she explains.
Despite the vividness achieved in her wood embroidery, Iqbal urges viewers to look beyond the superficial, for there exists something both ancient and ever-evolving at work. “Residing in the West while embracing Eastern heritage has inspired me to create—blending traits from various art movements to establish a synthesis that honors my background while accepting new influences,” she reveals. “Through the fusion of wood and threads across various dimensions, I invite the viewer to delve deeper than the surface, to contemplate perspectives woven with complexity.”
To follow her artistic journey, connect with Nosheen Iqbal on Instagram.
In the creations of artist Nosheen Iqbal, the textured, sculptural essence of embroidery is magnified into mixed media works using wood.
Originally from the UK and now in Dallas, Iqbal’s work has been consistently influenced by her Pakistani heritage.
She draws upon the craft traditions of Punjab and the elaborate structures that characterize this area of the globe.
Iqbal asserts that her work is “an investigation of self-preservation and identity.”
Motivated by the visual complexities passed down to her, such as vivid colors and detailed designs, Iqbal constructs her artistic explorations around tactile and visual aspects.
For Iqbal, inspiration surpasses mere aesthetics and delves into the meaning behind the creation process.
“Craftsmanship carries deep significance in Pakistani culture, where artistic expression is honored as a lifelong journey that shapes both identity and community.”
Frequently sustained by a wooden foundation—rounded, square, floral-shaped, fully covered or left partially exposed—the threads interact with light and shadow.
“The colored lines in my thread work are not merely ornamental; they are rich pathways that unveil their depth and intensity as the viewer moves around each piece, enabling my work to provide a transforming experience of light, color, and connection,” she states.
For all the vibrancy displayed in her wood embroidery, Iqbal invites viewers not to accept it merely at face value, as there is something both ancient and continually evolving at play.
“Through the intertwining of wood and threads across various dimensions, I welcome the viewer to explore beyond the surface, to consider layered complexities in perspective.”
Nosheen Iqbal: Website