Artist: Ayad Alqaragholli

Year of Work: 2020

Location: 7 Mary Street

Description: The concept for You Are My Soul (Anta Ruwhi) arose from my observations of the natural flora and fauna and richness of the environment in the South Perth area. After migrating from Iraq in 2005 I undertook
further studies in visual arts at Curtin University. Regularly driving along the South Perth foreshore I
frequently observed the abundance of bird life and in particular pelicans. These intriguing birds
embodied for me a freedom of spirit and resonated personally as a parallel of my freedom and new beginnings in my adopted country of Australia.
The two human figures, a man and woman pay homage to the multicultural tapestry of the South Perth community and how this blend of people live, love and interact. My very first ferry trip across the Swan River to South Perth allowed me to reflect on the people of this community. I noticed that many of the people around me as I stepped onshore in South Perth were couples, young and old, strolling happily and openly displaying love and affection. It is this human element; the soulmate connection that I
depict and reflect in this sculpture. The people who comprise the diverse South Perth community are enriched by the natural environment and their freedom to enjoy this abundant landscape. I hope that my sculpture will embody the positive values of life and that the wider audience who view my sculpture will feel uplifted and blessed as did I with my first experiences of this area.

Asset Type: Sculpture

Provenance: City of South Perth