It’s always refreshing to see something familiar interpreted in a new, unexpected context. By altering context, we can witness how the strength of the core idea translates and adapts to a new setting. Mariam Quraishi, a Pakistani artist, has worked on a series of artworks that take classic western fairytales, like Ariel the Little Mermaid, Little Red Riding Hood and Cinderella and reimagine them with a delightful Mughal flair.
From the artist: My interest in Mughal and Desi themes is what inspired my Mughal Fairytale series. I thought about how western fairytales can be translated into a Desi context. For example in the Little Red Riding Hood illustration I replaced the wolf with a tiger. For The Little Mermaid I predominantly altered the clothing, jewelry and the characterization of Ursula.
Ariel the Little Mermaid
Little Red Riding Hood
Cinderella
About the Artist:
Mariam Quraishi was born and raised in Karachi, Pakistan and is now studying illustration at the Rhode Island School of Design. She is passionate about children’s book illustration, character design and animation. She loves everything to do with art produced in the Mughal courts and enjoys integrating their style into the work she produces.
She blends the cultural influences around her in a fun and modern way with the aim of popularizing Pakistani and South Asian art forms which are placed in contexts that change the reader’s understanding and perception. She views visual storytelling and design as a means to better Pakistan’s image for both outsiders and Pakistani’s.
Her aim is to create media that encourages people, particularly children, to be more aware of art and literature from South Asia.
Lovely to see your work Mariam!