As the crisp, cool air of November unfurls its canvas, I’m drawn into a moment of reflection, celebrating the profound journey this past month has been and the exciting path that lies ahead. October was a kaleidoscope of insightful conversations, deep connections, and a pivotal conclusion to my residency and fellowship at the Queens Museum. It was a chapter filled with growth, understanding, and the kindling of new inspirations that will illuminate the road ahead.
The mosaic of experiences in October was enriched by the visits of numerous visionary art professionals to my studio, each contributing a distinct hue to my artistic expression and comprehension. A standout encounter was sharing my “Close to Home” exhibition with Brainard Carey from the Praxis Center for Learning. Our discussions delved into the convergence of spirituality, politics, and our collective humanity, highlighting the intrinsic need for connection and reflection on global crises and historical currents. This transformative experience underscored the capacity of art to foster meaningful dialogues and connections that transcend the ordinary.
Islam, Africa, and Decolonization
A seminal event was our exploration of “Islam, Africa, and Decolonization” with Umar Sheikh Tahir, a dialogue pulsating with themes of unity, resistance, and the impact of Islamic principles on movements for sovereignty and justice. This, coupled with the intimate “To Know One Another” gathering that followed, reaffirmed the strength of the community we are building, rooted in a quest for deeper understanding and connections that go beyond mere boundaries.
As my time at the Queens Museum came to a poetic close, the process of packing up my studio became a reflective journey through the memories and lessons that have shaped me. Though leaving behind a part of myself, I step forward enriched by this experience and ready for the new chapters that await.
The narrative of “Close to Home” extends through November, and I’m eager to share this piece of my soul with those who have yet to experience it. Your support and engagement are the heart of this journey, inviting deeper connections and shared moments of discovery. As we venture into November and the horizon beyond, I’m filled with gratitude and anticipation for the unfolding chapters. The conversations, insights, and spirit of community we’ve nurtured together are treasures that I carry with me, fueling my excitement for the upcoming events and the endless possibilities they herald.
Cairo and Pan-Africanism
I’m excited to invite you to join us for a compelling dialogue that traverses the rich cultural, political, and personal landscapes of Cairo, from the revolutionary fervor of the 1960s to the persisting calls for freedom and justice today. “Cairo and Pan-Africanism“, an online event held in conjunction with my exhibition “Close to Home,” aims to illuminate Cairo’s pivotal relationship with Black individuals and communities across the African continent and the diaspora at large.
Through the lens of our lived experiences and ongoing research, my esteemed colleagues Kribsoo Diallo, Mohamed Yehia, and I will explore Cairo’s influence on international movements for liberation and spiritual metamorphosis. We’ll delve into the city’s unique dynamics, tracing lineages, honoring our ancestors, and connecting threads between past and present struggles for autonomy and identity. Join us on November 12th, from 12 to 1:30pm EDT by RSVPing through this link.
Upcoming Talks
This month, I’m poised to embark on a series of talks and an exclusive screening of my film “Metem” in Philadelphia, opening doors to new dialogues and reflections. Additionally, the “Cairo and Pan-Africanism” dialogue at the Queens Museum and an engaging Zoom panel during Penn’s Homecoming week are opportunities to deepen our understanding and connections. The first talk will be happening on Wednesday, November 6th, at 4 to 5pm at Rutgers University.
On Thursday, November 14, 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. ET, I’ll be joining Prof. Gwendolyn DuBois Shaw and Prof. Tukufu Zuberi of Africana Studies on a Zoom panel honoring the legacy of Terry Adkins that will be held over Penn’s Homecoming week this year. I’ll be sharing more information about this soon and you should definitely mark your calendar for this.
October also marked the end of my transformative journey at the Queens Museum as an Artist in Residence and Fellow. The process of packing up my studio became a reflective pilgrimage through the memories, challenges, and growth experienced in this sacred space. I leave behind a piece of my heart but take with me the invaluable lessons and inspirations that will fuel the next chapter of my artistic voyage.
Support My Artistic Journey
Your unwavering support and passion for art are the essence of this journey, propelling us forward to share, engage, and inspire. As we continue to celebrate the unseen stories and connections revealed through art, I invite you to join me in these meaningful gatherings. Embracing this journey together, I also reach out for your support in my ongoing venture with Fractured Atlas. As I navigate the path of artistic creation, your backing through fiscal sponsorship not only aids in bringing these visions to life but also fosters a deeper connection within our community. Together, we can make these artistic endeavors not just dreams but realities that resonate and inspire.
Join me in this journey of artistic exploration and connection. Your support through Fractured Atlas empowers not just the continuation of these projects but also the thriving community we’ve built around them. Let’s embark on this path together, sharing in the beauty and transformation that art brings into our lives.
Stay engaged, stay inspired, and let’s continue to weave this rich tapestry of art and connections together.