An exhibition dedicated to emerging female Muslim artists has opened in England.
Among the pieces displayed at the Belvoir Art Gallery in Leicester are Arabic calligraphy, Islamic geometry, embroidery and abstract styles.
The In Praise exhibition, showing off the work of 10 artists, was pulled together by curator Shazia Osman.
“My aim was to bring awareness and appreciation of contemporary Islamic art to the Leicester art scene, while representing the women who create it” she said.
“My vision is to break down barriers and normalise the celebration of such artists and their work by allowing them to access different audiences.
“It is also to provide a space where the general public can engage with traditional and contemporary Islamic art, allowing them to learn more about this rich cultural form of expression,” she added.
Ms Osman said some of the artists chosen face barriers when furthering their careers in art.
She is a full-time carer to her autistic son, and said she can empathise with others facing difficulties in this field.
Talks and workshops were held for children and adults, including a Poetry and Open Mic event featuring local creatives.
