Eliyah Qureshi is a contemporary Pakistani artist based in East London. Her work is rich in conceptual symbolism and visual metaphor, seeking authenticity in complex societal issues derived from personal experiences. Her work gives a voice to those who are often unheard, thus turning disadvantage into strength. This sincere exploration of vulnerability ultimately emulate courage and inspires her collectors to find their own method of self-care.

Just like threads which appear regularly in Eliyahs work are constant trails of thoughts, her work is rich in symbolism: from the use of black ink which seethes into paper irreversibly - in the same way circumstances can stain and transform one’s life. The abstract gold patterns wash over, but never quite cover the black, mark the trial and error of seeking a remedy, Antlers emanate a necessary balance of force and compassion. Figures often drawn in delicate lines, hide their anxieties in plain sight. Bees are providers, crucial to the flourishing of life, but even the queen bee cannot survive without her hive. Honeycombs are patterned reminders of experiences, leaving behind marks even after they’re gone.

As well as working as an independent artist, she is also the co-founder and director of a digital media company Dream Mx. And the founder of Barkingside Art Club, where she organises inclusive art workshops for children and adults, aiming to integrate the local community in a creative environment. The club regularly takes part in international events such as Big Draw and Lumiere, as well as working with the Redbridge Council.

The subject matter of her work reflects the careful balance required in its production. In her busy schedule as an independent artist, designer, director, an active member of her community, and a mother of two, her home studio is an equilibrium of work and family. Each series is fuelled by an urge to achieve self-understanding. Just like the bees move their hives in order to thrive; Eliyah treats her studio practice as meditations which become stronger as they find new environments, giving those who own her works inspiration to find their own method of healing.

Eliyah regularly exhibits her work in group and solo exhibitions, in galleries across the UK and internationally as well as creating commissioned work for individuals, charities and companies.