Patterns of the Past

Ammna Sheikh presents her first ever solo show at the Upright Gallery in Edinburgh, Scotland.

This exhibition investigates the intricate legacy of Islamic architecture, a tradition that took shape in Persia during the eleventh century, influenced by a fusion of Turkoman, Chinese, Ottoman and Western European elements. This cultural blend, especially the Turk-Persian influence, shaped the Indian subcontinent profoundly under the Mughal Empire, beginning in 1526. With the Mughals’ Persian roots, countless artisans and craftspeople brought their skills to the region, transforming its visual culture and leaving a legacy that continues to shape Pakistani heritage - from language and literature to design, arts, and crafts.

To convey the significance of this heritage, Sheikh works with traditional techniques such as screenprinting and weaving which underscore the handmade nature of her pieces. Each artwork is created using labour-intensive methods that document the time and dedication necessary for their completion.

This process-driven approach highlights the importance of time, skill and craft, aligning with the ethos of Kashi tile-making, one of Sindh’s oldest handcrafts that historically linked Persian architecture to the region. Inspired by architectural features like Muqarnas - the “Honeycomb Vault” - she explores the structural beauty and layered spaces these forms create, offering viewers a glimpse into the timeless resonance of Islamic architecture.

Through these handmade, laborious processes she hopes to honour and help keep these crafts alive, celebrating the artistry that connects generations and transcends borders. Her work stands as a tribute to these cultural traditions, capturing both their historical significance and the vibrancy they bring to contemporary art.