Geometric Elephant
Created by: Safari Ali
Location: St George Street
Overview
Artist Safira Ali’s Geometric Elephant is covered with intricate geometric patterns, inspired by the rich traditions of Islamic geometry. The colours and patterns allude to the architecture from the Mughal Empire, and repeating motifs from South Asian and Islamic history transform the elephant – as if it is a tapestry.
Location
St George Street
Meet the Artist
Safira Ali
My artistic practice explores cultural identity, contemporary design and Islamic art patterns.
Working with traditional geometric patterns and calligraphy, my work looks at these elements with a modern lens, blending heritage with a contemporary interpretation.
I am particularly drawn to the structural qualities of geometry, creating works that celebrate symmetry, and cultural storytelling.
Inspired by South Asian and Islamic art aesthetics, I often use intricate patterns, natural pigments, and handmade techniques to produce my paintings.
My practice extends to teaching, where I share this art through workshops and community projects, providing a deeper understanding of their cultural significance.
As an artist, I am committed to pushing boundaries within traditional art forms, exploring new materials, and experimenting with multidisciplinary approaches.
My work aims to honour the past and tradition and use a contemporary perspective.
Meet the Elephants
Autumn
Created by: Ashby Willesley Primary SchoolLocation: Leicester Museum & Art Gallery- Leicester Stories Gallery (downstairs)The children at Willesley took part in a fun competition, designing an elephant with their own interests and personalities in mind. Each...
Ash the Elephant
Created by: Ash Field AcademyLocation: Fosse Neighbourhood Centre & LibraryOur early primary classes worked together to create our elephant sculpture. After choosing a pattern, we masked it onto the elephant and let the children paint freely across the whole...
Edi
Created by: All Saints C of E Primary SchoolLocation: Lyme Regis: Leicester Central Library- UpstairsAt All Saints C of E Primary School we celebrate difference as we ‘Let Our Lights Shine Brightly Every Day’. Edi, has the four Saints of All Saints on each leg to...
Uma
Created by: 1st Fleckney Scout GroupLocation: LOROS Market Street Shop- WindowThe young people were sat down and the leaders spoke about Uma and what she entails, the leaders spoke about LOROS and the Stomp Round Leicester Trail. The leaders then gave the group a...