Home & Away: Shared Narratives of Gendered Identity is a unique arts and culture series spotlighting the work of four Boston-based female artists from Iran, Pakistan, Morocco, and Saudi Arabia. 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.

In addition to four debut exhibits, AIC will host a series of cultural events to complement each artist’s work, including concerts by local musicians, intercultural networking events, and discussion panels. Join us for an exploration of Muslim culture – looking beyond theology to the rich and complex identity of the individual.

This program is supported in part by a grant form the Boston Cultural Council, a local agency which is funded by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, administrated by the Mayor’s Office of Arts, Tourism, and Special Events.

About the Artists

- Niloofar Ziae
- Samina Quraeshi
- Chaimae Mechtaly
- Nada Farhat