By Emma Taggart
Maryam Yousif
Maryam Yousif
Born in Iraq and now based in San Francisco, Maryam Yousif draws on a blend of cultural influences. Her ceramic figures explore Mesopotamian mythologies, histories, and artifacts, reinterpreting these ancient motifs with a contemporary twist.
Her Habibti series—named after the Arabic term of endearment—beautifully captures a balance between her personal and cultural experiences. The series features female figures in long dresses, inspired by ancient Sumerian votive statues once made to communicate with the gods on behalf of worshippers. Yousif reimagines these timeless forms in her unique style, adorning her ceramic figures with flowers, ruffles, and contemporary patterns.
December 9, 2025
