Blessing in disguise by Syrraa Ali in Edinburgh

This gouache painting captures a serene moment of connection between a young woman and the natural world. Seated on a low stone wall, she extends her arm, offering a delicate perch to a small bird. The soft, muted tones of the gouache lend a gentle, dreamlike quality to the scene. The woman, rendered with a quiet grace, is dressed in a peach-colored top and gray trousers, with a vibrant red scarf adding a touch of warmth. Two more birds fly in the distance, echoing the sense of freedom and harmony. The simple landscape, with its stylized bushes, scattered flowers, and a pale yellow sun against a vast, light sky, emphasizes the intimacy of the moment and the quiet beauty of a shared connection with nature. The painting evokes a feeling of peace and tranquility, celebrating the simple joys found in the company of the natural world.