Zahied Tony Mohammed | National September 11 Memorial & Museum

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Artist's Statement

“Connected Souls”

My name is Zahied Tony Mohammed and I was born in Trinidad. I have had the privilege to live in New York City for almost thirty years.

As we approach the twenty-year anniversary of 911, I was inspired to create a painting to honor the 2983 people that died as a result of the terrorist attacks in 1993 and 2001.

I decided to do this painting using silver-colored circles to represent the circle of life and how the 2983 people will forever be connected. I used silver paint to symbolize courage, hope and positive energy as we honor the people that were killed.

The names of the 2983 people who were sadly killed are printed onto the canvas. The printed area is purposely 12 ft x 4 ft to signify that we honor each person, 12 months and 4 seasons of the year.

I hand painted 2983 circles to represent the circle of life of each person. Each circle is connected to symbolize that they will forever be connected. All the circles are 1.5 inches in diameter. There is a 5-inch silver border surrounding the names. Within the border there are splashes of red, white and blue paint representing the American flag.

I believe you don’t have to be friends, family, or even related to mourn the loss of someone. All souls are connected, which is why I named the painting “Connected Souls”.

The painting was made to be hung as a tapestry; the total canvas size (unframed) is 154 inches (H) x 57 inches (W).

Zahied Tony Mohammed

Email: tonymohammedart2020@gmail.com

Website: zahiedtmohammed.com

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In 1994 I immigrated to the United States from Trinidad & Tobago with a dream; a dream not unlike that of millions of immigrants before me. It was more of a yearning to achieve my dreams in the land of opportunity. Over the years I have been blessed with many opportunities that have allowed me to search my soul, expand my horizons, and grow as an individual.

While I believe in education as a practical path to earn a decent living, all of my attempts left me feeling that something was missing. Searching for answers, I realized that art was my passion. Without formal training I had to take a leap of faith and follow my desire for expression and fulfillment. The blank canvas was exactly what I needed.

I strongly believe art is a very personal expression of my soul and I was destined to convey my perceptions through this art form. My intention is to use my vision to project positive messages and emotions through the medium of art and the written word. My art has allowed me to express who I am and I consider them somewhat autobiographical.

Gateway Art - Group exhibit: December 2015

Gateway Art - Solo exhibit: April 2016. In part to benefit the American Cancer Society.

Montserrat Gallery – Group exhibit: September 2016

Jade Eatery & Lounge – Solo exhibit: January 2017

Art Expo New York – Group exhibit: April 2019

Rio 11 Gallery - Solo exhibit: September 2019. In part to benefit the American Cancer Society.

Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art and Story Telling – August 2020

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