Anila Quayyum Agha

A mixed media artist, Anila’s work is influenced by Japanese architecture, art, and craft as evident by Murmuration, shown in Gallery 924, and other smaller encaustic works inspired by the landscape and history of Japan.

She desired to immerse herself in the Japanese culture during her renewal process and spent the first year of her fellowship researching and preparing for a concentrated immersion in the country. Anila traveled to Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto and studied art and craft at galleries and museums, and visited temples and gardens to practice serenity and introspection. “The one thing I realized while immersed in the Japanese culture was that my inner serenity doesn’t come from outside, but originates within my own self. This happens when mind, body, and soul are at peace. So, too, creativity cannot be induced, but has to open like a flower from within, allowing for slow and measured progress in comprehension.”

She envisioned she would return to Indianapolis and spend uninterrupted time in her studio, reflecting on her travels, and producing artwork. Instead, upon her return to the United States, she won the double grand prize for ArtPrize 2014 with the work Intersections. She attributes the serenity and research she experienced in Japan with helping her through the excitement and emotions of the ArtPrize win. “I think it was the most important moment in my renewal to spend an extraordinary amount of time with my own thoughts, memories, and breathing.”