The series aims in part to address a lack of exhibits by contemporary Muslim artists in Boston’s galleries and museums, a void that reinforces the perception that Muslim art is limited to calligraphy and rugs. In fact, Boston is home to a vibrant scene of stereotype-shattering artistic innovators from across the Muslim world.
“Home and Away” showcases four diverse examples of this new paradigm of artist: female, of Muslim heritage, and shaped by complex hybrid identities – some with a hidden Jewish heritage, others with seemingly contradictory roots (e.g. Mecca and New Mexico). The shapes, colors, textures, and subject matter provides insight beyond words, offering a window into the past, and a microcosmic view of the issues and experiences that shape so many women today.
