SCROLL OF THE PROPHETS

2015

The Scroll of The Prophets explores the science of numerology, code making and abstraction of figurative representations. The artwork takes the names of all the 25 prophets mentioned in the Qu’ran and translates them back to their numerical value using the system of Abjad Hawaz; which is a decimal alphabetic numeral system/alphanumeric code, in which the 28 letters of the Arabic alphabet are assigned numerical values. It has been used in the Arabic-speaking world since before the eighth century when positional Arabic numerals were adopted and has been used for multiple purposes including mysticism and numerology. 

Using this system, Awartani has converted each of the 25 names into their numerical value and then constructs a geometric pattern for each prophet based on their number, layering the circles, squares, stars, triangles and hexagonal forms, placing one character (or individual) next to the other in a chronological scroll. 

Within the Islamic tradition figurative representations of any prophet is deeply frowned upon and akin to idol worship, however by adopting the art of geometry, which is a highly common and prized form of visual expression used in the Islamic tradition, Awartani attempts to transcend the limitations placed on representational forms and reimagine alternative methods of expression. 

Scroll of The Prophets, 2015, gouache and ink on paper, 42 x 681 cm. © Dana Awartani