Aya Zakout, 16, has admired art since she was in kindergarten, following various artists on Instagram and Pinterest. But it wasn’t until two years ago that she stumbled upon the art form that inspired her to begin doing her own drawing: the “mandala.”

A Sanskrit word, a mandala is a spiritual and ritual symbol in Indian religions, representing the universe. However, it has come to represent any diagram or geometric pattern that symbolizes the cosmos.

“I fell in love with it,” Aya says. “I love the extreme level of detail, and the focus and patience required over long hours to draw it. It’s like meditation, for me. It gives me a feeling of peace and serenity.”

Aya also loves math and English, and hopes to study medicine in university. But meanwhile, her parents are supporting her love of art. “They were my first supporters!” she says. “They are always encouraging me to share my drawings with the world on social media.”

To create each work, she uses a fine-point pen, compass, different types of rulers and a protractor. Small pieces take four to five hours to complete, and large ones require “days.”

“I haven't exhibited my work anywhere until now, and that’s so sad for me!” she says “I want people to see my artwork naturally, not only online! I am a big dreamer…I dream of being a famous artist to bring visibility to my country’s name. She deserves freedom!”

Posted June 9, 2016