This painting of Jamea Anwar, also known as Al-Hakim Mosque, is inspired by Marya Adnan’s visit to Egypt last year — a trip that left a lasting imprint on her artistic journey. Standing within the vast courtyard of this historic Fatimid mosque, she was mesmerized by its harmony, symmetry, and spiritual quietude. The experience resonated deeply with her love for architecture, heritage, and spaces that hold a sense of serenity.
In this artwork, Marya brings together the elements that define her style: an expressive, atmospheric backdrop, soft transitions of colour, and the graceful rhythm of natural light. The composition blends gentle gradients with sharp architectural silhouettes, capturing both the tranquillity and grandeur of the mosque. The reflective courtyard surface, the arched colonnades draped in green, and the iconic minaret echo her ongoing exploration of spaces that evoke peace, grounding, and spiritual connection.
Painting Jamea Anwar for the first time challenged Marya to translate its historical depth into a contemporary visual language — one that balances realism with emotion. This piece is not only a tribute to the beauty of Fatimid architecture but also a personal reflection of a moment that moved her, staying true to her mission of creating art that brings calm, meaning, and joy into a space.