This silk screen print is a limited edition. It features a calligraphic composition by artist Ahmed Moustafa (born 1943). The gold-coloured composition reads: “In the Name of God, the Gracious and the Merciful.” This phrase is also known as the ‘bismillah’ or ‘basmalah’. It is the first verse of the first chapter of the Qur’an. The basmalah is often recited by Muslims before embarking on any action, for example, eating or travelling. Ahmed Moustafa who was born in Egypt is presently a resident of the United Kingdom. Much of his work is derived from the Qur’anic text and he considers his art as an expression of his faith.
