Cyrah Dardas, an artist based in Detroit, draws inspiration from oxidized metals, foraged plants, and botanical inks and dyes to create stunning artworks that reflect the landscape around her. Her work involves merging human-made and organic materials to produce paintings on cotton paper that are reminiscent of Persian tapestries.
In her abstract compositions, Dardas explores themes of interdependence and connectivity, drawing parallels to the natural world and the human psyche. Her use of handmade watercolors, collaged paper, and hand-dyed fabrics creates visually striking pieces that evoke the sensual flower forms of Georgia O’Keeffe and the symbol-rich paintings of Hilma af Klint.
Dardas’s artistic practice is deeply rooted in her quest for belonging and understanding her relationship to the environment. She questions the modern concept of individualism and seeks to foster reciprocity with the elements and beings that have shaped her existence. Through her art, she aims to reconnect with nature in a more meaningful and empathetic way, contrasting with the extractive processes of capitalism and technology.
By using locally sourced materials and traditional techniques, Dardas pays homage to ancient ways of living in harmony with the natural world. Her work reflects her exploration of interdependency, growth, and life cycles, particularly inspired by her experience of pregnancy and the transformative journey of new parenthood.
Currently, Dardas’s work is on display in the group exhibition “Warp and Weft: Technologies within Textiles” at The Shepherd in Detroit, presented by Library Street Collective. Her art invites viewers to contemplate the intricate relationships between humans, nature, and the interconnectedness of all living beings.
To explore more of Cyrah Dardas’s work, visit her website and follow her on Instagram for updates on her latest projects. Through her unique artistic vision and commitment to sustainability, Dardas continues to inspire conversations about our place in the world and the importance of nurturing a deeper connection to the environment.
