From the 1990s onwards, Arabshahi's doubts about language being an adequate means of expression become ever more evident in his paintings . Ancient motifs, cuneiform and mathematical symbols all become less prevalent. Only the universal symbols remain, and begin to dominate his work.
 This mystical stage did not last long, paved the way for further developments, whereby Arabshahi's work began to take a more abstract path while retaining some impressionistic influences.