Shazra’s Stellar Journey of Dots and Dreams

MV+ News DeskJuly 20, 2024

Amidst the soft glow of the Unveiling Visions Art Exhibition, Aminath Shazra Shahid's eyes gleam with the same careful precision evident in the countless dots adorning her mesmerizing creation. Known affectionately as Shazra or Ninee, this pre-school teacher by day transforms into a stippling expert by night, her canvas a universe of intricate dots.

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A glimpse at her Instagram page, @kudaraimui, reveals a captivating journey of artistic evolution. From early inktober sketches to stunning stippling portraits of celebrities like Zendaya, Tessa Thompson and various K-pop stars, Shazra's work showcases her dedication and passion.

Her submission to this year's exhibition, titled "Moon in Millions," is a mesmerizing testament to her craft. The moon's surface, captured in astonishing detail, reveals craters and valleys rendered with an almost photographic precision. Upon closer inspection, the viewer is astounded to discover that the entire image is composed of millions of tiny dots, painstakingly applied with a steady hand.

"Moon in Millions" follows last year's "Male' in Million," a similar stippling masterpiece Shazra made to depict the cramped capital city. Her work is not only visually stunning but also imbued with hidden treasures. With a twinkle in her eye, Shazra reveals that the moon conceals three secret symbols, including the logo of her favorite K-pop band, BTS.

For Shazra, the Unveiling Visions Art Exhibition is more than just a platform to showcase her work. It's a vital opportunity for Maldivian artists to connect, exchange ideas, and gain exposure.
"Artists in the Maldives don't have many platforms," she explains. "This is perhaps the biggest and most accessible one."

Shazra encourages aspiring artists to pursue their passion relentlessly. "If you love drawing, don't let it go," she urges. "You can find time, even while working a day job. Don't give up, even if it takes time."

Despite the challenges of sourcing art supplies and finding buyers in the Maldives, Shazra remains optimistic about the future. She hopes for greater accessibility to materials and a thriving market for local artists.

Through her extraordinary stippling creations, Shazra invites us to see the world in a new light, one dot at a time. Her art is a testament to patience, dedication, and the boundless possibilities of human creativity.