The author's childhood took place in one of the smallest villages of Adygea, filled with Nan's fairy tales. Possessing a storyteller's talent, she could tell the same story with new details, characters, and nuances each time. Inyzhi — cunning giants, and Ispы — malicious dwarfs — lived in eternal struggle, outsmarting each other in their ancient battles. Who would outwit whom in this endless confrontation?
Vivid stories about Narts, ancient heroes, and simple tales about who is stronger — all of this was part of Fatima's world. The Adyghe have their own rules for every situation in life. Each story is told with a specific purpose—to teach something important. Every song is imbued with sacred meaning, every dance move signifies something, and each swirl of an ornament hides its own story. One could look at a craftswoman’s embroidery and understand the story she has woven into it. These hidden meanings are incredibly captivating.
Legends, mythology, goddesses, and folklore characters — all of this shaped the artist’s perception of the world. Throughout her life, her entire creative work has been dedicated to humans and human-like beings. Just like these panels — reimagined goddesses depicted as ornaments that tell their stories. Which stories? Each one is unique to her...