Awe-inspiring Culture Forward Islam and Art Celebratory Networking Event at Ikon Gallery
The Ikon Gallery hosted the Islam and Art Celebratory Networking Event, organised by the Culture Forward team as part of the ‘Qur’an in the City’ project
On 16 April 2024, the Ikon Gallery hosted the Islam and Art Celebratory Networking Event, organised by the Culture Forward team as part of the ‘Qur’an in the City’ project. The event celebrated the conclusion of the Start the Press! exhibition and featured a rich and diverse agenda.
The highlight of the evening was presentations by artists Taiba Akhtar and Haseebah Ali, who showcased their print responses to the Birmingham Qur’an and the University of Birmingham's Mingana Collection. Dr Neelam Hussain, Curator of the Mingana Collection, provided a useful insight and overview of the Collection. The artists also demonstrated the use of a giant antique, flatbed printing press, captivating the audience with their skill and creativity.
Taiba preparing the printing plate.
University of Birmingham academics provided insightful summaries of their research areas, all linked in varying and interesting ways to the event’s theme – Islam and Art.
Danielle Krikorian presenting
Danielle Krikorian discussed the intricate relationship between Islamic art, abstraction, and trauma in the works of Lebanese women artists during the Lebanese civil war, particularly focusing on the 1970s.
Dr. Deniz Sözen shared her exploration of ‘Islamic aesthetics in contemporary art,’ examining how diaspora artists engage with their cultural heritage and the aesthetics of Islamic art.
Humma Mouzam, a doctoral researcher in English Literature delved into the image of the dragon and its connections to both Arthurian literature and the medieval Islamic world.
Haseebah Ali’s print, alongside the original lino cutting
Representatives from a variety of cultural organisations in the City were present, providing a brilliant networking opportunity over drinks and canapes, cultivating a supportive atmosphere with a shared sense of purpose – especially important at a time when the future of art and culture is under threat.
Attendees also had the opportunity to view Exodus Crooks’ exhibition Epiphany (Temporaire) in the upper gallery, supported by the University’s Public Engagement team.
Adding to the event's ambiance, Ensemble Safaa, the Official Samaa Group of Tariqa Qadiriyya Boutchichiyya in Birmingham based at The Zawiya Trust, treated guests with a spellbinding performance.
Ensemble Safaa Singers
The event was a resounding success, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas and celebrating the intersection of Islam and art. Thank you to the Ikon Gallery team for their support and providing an inspiring setting for the event.