February has been a month of artistic milestones, meaningful gatherings, and deep reflection. From launching new limited edition prints to hosting an intimate art salon in Doha and participating in Malcolm 100X: A Radical Centenary, I’m grateful for the opportunities to share my work and engage in powerful conversations. Here’s a look back at the highlights of the month.
February 22: Launching ‘Malcolm X in Turban’ & Art Salon in Doha
This month, I introduced a new limited edition print, Malcolm X in Turban—a reimagining of Malcolm X’s visit to Ghana, layered with symbols of rebirth and cultural reclamation. In this piece, I merge the personal with the political, situating Malcolm X within an ongoing lineage of Black liberation and Islamic identity. Through a custom-made lotus wallpaper backdrop, the work transforms his historical presence into a contemporary testament to resistance and self-determination.
To celebrate this launch, I hosted an in-person art salon in Doha on the same day. Bringing people together in an intimate setting, this gathering allowed for deep conversations about my print series and the themes of history, spirituality, and continuity that shape my work. Seeing attendees engage with my prints up close and share their reflections was truly special.
February 23: Virtual Art Salon Tour
For those who couldn’t attend in person, I hosted a virtual tour of the salon the following day. This allowed a wider audience to experience the event and gain insight into the concepts behind my work. Through this tour, I was able to share the details and significance of my prints—including their artistic and historical inspirations—bridging the gap between physical and digital engagement.
Now Available: Limited Edition Prints from ‘Close to Home’
Alongside Malcolm X in Turban, several other prints from my Close to Home exhibition at the Queens Museum are now available for collectors:
Fitra (Amber): Yusuf – The first limited edition print from my oil painting series, this piece captures a symphony of improvisational drips, multi-layered textures, healing hues, and a whisper of gold dust. It speaks to themes of growth, renewal, and childhood purity.
Fitra: Amber (Watercolor Series) – Inspired by The Book of Sufi Healing, this series reflects on the Islamic concept of fitra—innate purity and divine potential—through fluid watercolor compositions that explore transformation and renewal.
Tawaf/Sa’y – Rooted in the sacred pilgrimage rituals of Hajj, this series layers text-based compositions inspired by Ali Shariati’s Hajj: The Pilgrimage, tracing the historical and spiritual journeys of figures like Hajjar and Malcolm X.
Last Rite – A digital intervention into a historic lithograph, this work revisits the burial of Malcolm X and the bravery of African American Muslims who ensured his Islamic funeral rites were honored, despite intense fear and threats.
February 28: Honoring Malcolm X at His Centennial
To close out the month, I had the honor of participating in Malcolm 100X: A Radical Centenary, a global commemoration of Malcolm X’s legacy as we approach the 100th anniversary of his birth. I spoke on the panel “Women of Color and Malcolm X’s Enduring Legacy,” moderated by Dr. Mona Oraby, alongside Najha Zigbi-Johnson, Dr. Maytha Alhassen, and other incredible voices.
My discussion focused on the profound impact that Black women had on Malcolm X’s political thought, as well as the ways his legacy continues to inspire women of color globally. I also explored how my artistic practice engages with Malcolm’s evolving understanding of Black radicalism, internationalism, and spirituality, particularly through my recent works Malcolm X in Turban and Last Rite.
This event was a powerful reminder of the depth of Malcolm X’s influence—not just historically, but in shaping contemporary movements for Black liberation, transnational solidarity, and self-determination. Engaging in this conversation with fellow artists, scholars, and activists was an incredibly meaningful way to honor his life and legacy.
Looking Ahead
As February comes to a close, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who has supported my work—whether by attending events, engaging with my prints, or sharing these moments with me. Your encouragement fuels my practice, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.
Looking ahead to March, I’m excited to be giving a visiting artist lecture at Purchase College on March 5, 2025, at 5 PM. As part of their ongoing series featuring artists, curators, and scholars, I’ll be sharing insights into my practice—how it bridges history, abstraction, and social engagement—while reflecting on my experiences working between Doha and New York. I’ll also discuss my recent solo exhibition, Close to Home, at the Queens Museum and the ways my work explores cultural preservation, diaspora identity, and Islamic aesthetics. I’m looking forward to engaging with students and faculty in what promises to be a dynamic and thought-provoking conversation.
With Ramadan beginning soon, I wish you all a month filled with peace, reflection, and spiritual renewal. Ramadan Mubarak!
You can explore my prints and learn more about my work on my website: nsengaknight.com or by emailing me at studio@nsengaknight.com
Your support—whether through collecting, sharing, or engaging—means everything. Thank you for being part of this journey!