Nine years have passed since I immigrated to the U.S., and one question has stayed with me: what does identity mean? When you leave behind all you know to begin something new—where is home? Where do you belong?

I often find myself in between—rooted in deep Iranian values while adapting to a Western way of life. It’s a space that feels tender, exciting, amusing—and sometimes confusing. Familiar and unfamiliar, grounded and ungrounded.

In that in-between, I turned to my hands and imagination. I began exploring “home” through color, craft, and handmade objects. It became a way to feel more whole.

I’ve been learning block printing and pattern-making while reconnecting with the visual language of my heritage—Persian and Central Asian motifs in architecture, pottery, and nomadic rugs. Their rhythm and meaning feel timeless.

My colors are inspired by English and French interiors, vintage textiles, and aged furniture—soft, layered, and historical. Maybe it's my way of meeting the West I’ve grown to appreciate. I choose each shade with care, hoping to evoke balance and quiet harmony.

Each hand-printed pattern repeats with subtle differences—echoing the past while gently making space for something new.

This work isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. About grounding. About creating something that feels like home.

Hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

Afshan

From Root to Room

What is the ancient art of block printing?

Blog Post Title Four