Inspiration
Mosques, all around the world are considered to be the the most challenging to design.
Not only because of the shapes involved but also because they all follow some of the same basic design principles of Islamic architecture and to use those few principle items in order to create not only something new but also meaningful, is easier said than done.
Growing up in Pakistan means developing a certain kind of respect for a number of monuments, and one of the most iconic and respected one among those is the Faisal Mosque. Designed by Vedat Dalokay, it resembles the tent of a desert bedouin; hence visibly hinting on the humble origins of Muslim Ummah and metaphorically expressing the life's ephemeral nature.
As an artist who has been away from his roots and pursuing a life pretty much devoid of creativity, the return to old tools had to be succeeded by the creation of something beautiful, challenging, and meaningful.
