This project is a visual and conceptual study on the symbolism of fertility in Pakistani art, exploring how it is portrayed as both an empowering force and a source of restriction for women. Drawn to the complexity of the subject, I examined how different artists engaged with the theme—some celebrating fertility as a symbol of strength, lineage, and creation, while others critiqued it as a cultural expectation that limits women’s autonomy.
In Pakistani society, fertility and motherhood are often viewed as defining milestones for women, carrying immense social weight. Through this visual portfolio, I sought to unpack the cultural narratives behind that pressure and amplify the nuance within them. Each piece in the study highlights how personal and varied the experience of fertility is, affirming that all women’s choices—whether in embracing or rejecting motherhood—are valid and deserving of respect. This project was a way to open space for those conversations, using traditional motifs and contemporary artistic discourse to reflect on one of the most deeply ingrained and often unspoken societal expectations.
