Fitra: Amber

For my Fitra series I am reflecting on a foundational Islamic concept regarding the nature of human beings. Contrary to the Christian faith my parents were raised in, in the Islamic faith they converted to – there is no concept of original sin. To the contrary, as a child, my parents taught me that according to Islamic teachings all people are born pure and without sin. This pure nature is our “Fitra” and it is key to our connection to our Creator and our divine purpose. Our Fitra is our most “authentic” and natural state. 

Nsenga Knight in her Queens Museum studio with the paintings from the Fitra: Amber series behind her.