Maangaro
— 2023
Maangaro is a graphical artwork that celebrates the depth and diversity of the Somali language through the exploration of maah maah (proverbs) and the ancient Somali script, Kaddare. Proverbs have a significant role in Somali culture, serving as powerful tools of communication that connect people, convey messages, and make a lasting impact. This project pays homage to the profound tradition of proverbial wisdom, which is passed down from one generation to the next.
Featuring twelve proverbs, this artwork embodies the artist's personal connection with his mother, who imparted these timeless words of wisdom. The title, Maangaro, reflects the belief in a mother's innate intuition, knowing what is best for her children even before they realize it themselves. These proverbs serve as cherished oral heirlooms, treasured and contemplated upon by successive generations.
Using abstract graphical techniques, the artist explores the visual aspects of the Somali language and culture, specifically through the Kaddare script. Although the Latin script is widely used by Somalis today, Kaddare was an alternative script that holds historical significance. The artist rendered this unique typeface to write these proverbs, extracting visual elements from the script's forms, thus transforming orality into the written form. This project builds upon the artist's previous endeavors, which aimed to uncover the historical context, artistic forms, and cultural references embedded in Somali visual art.
