Salsaal, meaning 'mud' or ‘sounding clay’ in Arabic is a tactile meditation on the foundational characteristic of ‘humility’. To be humble is to remove ego & open up to receive. The texturally soft surface appears open to receive impression, as clay.

Mud and clay are foundational elements with immense value for purification. As with mud and clay masks, they purify the skin. In Islam we perform ‘wudu’ (ablution) and bathe ourselves to purify our minds and bodies for prayer. But in the absence of water, pure earth is to be used. Even for animals, dirt is also used to cleanse in the absence of water.

At the foundational stage of humanity- children are perfect receivers. Such pure and humble spirits are able to dream without limitation & explore without fear. It's this balance of humility that creates a clear mind to think no more and certainly no less of oneself than we should.

May Salsaal serve as a reminder that the fountain of youth is in our humility. To reshape the heart & renew our vision to see clearly our value and become like children.

~ Shayba