Mended, Not broken by Naseema Parveen
- Hashtag Kalakar
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read

Introduction
Naseema Parveen's evocative painting "Mended, Not broken" invites viewers into a world where resilience and hope merge in a dance of color and form. Through her work, Parveen offers a powerful visual narrative inspired by her personal journey, capturing the delicate balance between fragility and strength.
About the Artwork
Inspired by her personal journey with lupus, Parveen's "Mended, Not broken" is a testament to resilience, healing, and hope. The golden fractures within the piece represent the scars of pain and the courage required to transform these scars into sources of strength. Butterflies are placed strategically within the composition to symbolize transformation, while blooming flowers celebrate renewal and perseverance. Parveen uses her art as a reminder that illness does not define us and that, despite invisible battles, we can continue to bloom and evolve.
Hashtag Kalakar Expert Interpretation
Visual Description
The artwork presents a central figure with a face shrouded by a network of golden cracks, reminiscent of the Japanese art form Kintsugi. The gold lines stand out vividly against the otherwise subdued tones of the background. This central figure is draped in a blue garment that introduces a serene and calming presence. Two butterflies, one purple and the other pink, perch gently on the figure's left shoulder, capturing attention with their brightness. Adorning the scene, sunflowers and red roses vibrate with rich yellows and reds, contrasting strikingly against the muted grey background, bringing an element of vitality to the piece.
Artistic Interpretation
"Mended, Not broken" narrates a compelling story of healing and personal strength. The golden fractures are a visual homage to the Kintsugi philosophy: embracing breaks and repairs as part of an object's history, making it stronger and more beautiful for having been broken. This becomes a metaphor for personal growth through adversity. The butterflies serve as symbols of change and evolution, suggesting the subject's transformation through their experiences. Meanwhile, the vivid flowers anchor the themes of beauty, life, and perseverance amidst adversity. The composition juxtaposes a somber background with lively elements, symbolizing a journey from struggle to resilience, ultimately conveying hope and the enduring spirit of human tenacity.
Mood & Atmosphere
The mood of "Mended, Not broken" is layered, blending contemplation with upliftment. The neutral grey of the background initially conveys introspection or adversity, a quiet setting for personal reflection. As the viewer's eye moves across the composition, the vivacity of the butterflies and flowers introduces an atmosphere of hope and renewal. The golden cracks infuse the image with a sense of vulnerability that is swiftly transformed into empowerment, changing a potentially melancholic narrative into one of positive transformation and enduring strength.
About Hashtag Kalakar
This artwork was submitted as part of the Hashtag Kalakar competition, a platform dedicated to giving artists a stage to share their creative expressions and reach a wider audience. Hashtag Kalakar is committed to celebrating artistic talent and providing a venue for artists to showcase their work and engage with a diverse community.


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