Ayan Muse (b. 1994) is a Somali artist living and working in Toronto whose practice explores themes of resilience, togetherness, and nurture. Through paintings of abstracted figures and simplified forms, she emphasizes movement and collective presence over individual detail. Often depicting Somali women from her own community, Muse portrays scenes of gathering, labor, and quiet strength—honoring the enduring spirit and care that sustain many African societies. Color plays a central role in her work, shifting from subtle tones to bold hues that generate emotional contrast and narrative depth. Working with layered washes of thinned oils, acrylics, and watercolours, she builds dynamic relationships between color and form. Self-taught, Muse draws inspiration from contemporary photographs, personal memories, and storytelling, creating paintings that weave together the people, places, and experiences that have shaped her identity.