Ballona

"Ballona," which means "balloon" in Arabic, was inspired by the grief I felt after my grandmother's passing. Balloons, usually symbols of joy, became an emotional metaphor for the heaviness I was carrying. The weight holding them down represents the burden of sorrow. The colorful background contrasts with the dark-toned balloons, symbolizing how grief can overshadow moments of happiness. I began the painting with cheerful colors, reflecting my initial attempt to stay positive, but as I worked, darker layers emerged, mirroring my deepening sadness. The painting conveys the complexity of loss, where joy and sorrow can exist side by side.