Reaching for the Skies
Reaching for the Skies is a sculpture made by artist Amin Guljee who wanted to depict the desire and struggle to become more powerful through collective efforts. The series of hands represents humanity’s shared struggle. Through the intricate overlapping of the veins, the artist reinforces the idea of collectivism and the spirit of unity. Guljee said, “These hands for me are an emotion, a desire, and a hope.”
The artist was inspired by poet and philosopher Allama Muhammad Iqbal. Considered the poet of the East, Iqbal wrote about integration, unification, and brotherhood. The sculpture is an artistic rendition of Iqbal’s philosophy. Each hand was created through an intuitive process and depicts the artist’s expression of unity to attain peace and prosperity.
The Permanent Mission of Pakistan presented the gift to the United Nations in 2019.