"I think it should be the woman's right to choose whether or not to wear the hijab, and not something imposed on her by religious laws interpreted by men - nowhere in the Quran does it say that a woman must wear a hijab and the little that is mentioned on the matter is subject to interpretation. That becomes an extension of many other issues around the rights of Arab women."

Using the above quotes, I do say, as a muslim woman the law of the Quran is clear regarding muslim women needing to cover up and wear hijab. It is compulsory for the hijab to be worn, the small space for interpretation is at the point of whether the face and the hands are included when covering up, and according to the many Islamic legal sources it needs to be closed up.

These beautiful pieces remind me of a blog I once wrote:

I love public radio (NPR)! I have listened for years since my college recruiting days in Tennessee in the late 80's. Over the past few months I have listened to interviews and commentaries on the wearing of Hijabs and veils by Muslim/Islamic females. I support these women's ability to embrace their culture and religious preference, something many Americans have begun to view as un-patriotic or un American. One of the aspects of being American is the promotion of its "freedom" of expression and religious practices. Today, one has to wonder if we still hold this cornerstone aspects of America valid. America was founded on such "freedoms", but you would not know it today by the numerous discussions over women wearing hijabs and then going so far as to put these women on trial who chose to wear the hijab or veils.. The conversations around such "freedoms" make me wonder if we as "Americans" still believe in our choices and rights or not.
I have yet to hear of anyone bringing any Catholic nuns before our court system to explain their Hijabs! We have witnessed Catholic nuns for centuries wearing their religious hijabs which promotes the Catholic religion without public outcry or rejection. How is this different from Muslim women wearing theirs?
The recent objections and public hearings are simply oppression tactics to continue to tell women what they can and cannot do in the world. Shame on America for pretending to be tolerant but actually becoming more oppressive daily. All women will need to listen to these conversations and wonder what aspect of woman will be chosen as a "hunt" next. Women in America must continue to respect our religious preferences and choices even if others don't. We must not be "handled" and used for politcal gain and religious oppression that are obviously growing in our "free" society.
Reference the beginning foundation of country. Remember that we use to hold dear our "freedom" to practice our chosen religions. Abandon FEAR and the well organized oppression of women their choices.

Dear International Museumof Women,

I am enlightened by your works and how they contribute to broadening the perspectives of many. What an inspirational work for society you are doing !

I wanted to get in touch as I thought your artists might be interested in applying for the Freedom to Create Prize, an international celebration of the power of art to promote social justice, build the foundations for an open society and inspire the human spirit. Last year, over 1,000 artists entered from more than 80 countries. You are more than welcomed to let your networks know about the prize too.

The Prize consists of three categories: the Main Prize, open to individuals or artistic groups in all creative fields; the Imprisoned Artist Prize, focusing on artists who are currently imprisoned for their artwork and the Youth Prize which is open to artists under the age of 18. The total prize fund is US$ 125,000 which will be divided between the winning artists and their nominated advocacy organisations to further the cause their artwork has highlighted.

We would love to get an entry from you ! And of course, from any of the artists in your networks.. Simply go to http://www.freedomtocreate.com/Prize-Apply.asp to apply. It’s very easy I promise!!

Aside from the Prize, Freedom to Create works to share entrants’ talents with the rest of the world. In addition to our exhibitions in London and New York, we also have a global touring exhibition. Most recently, we have showed at HIFA in Harare, Zimbabwe and at the Queen’s Palace in Kabul, Afghanistan. All entrants will also be considered for our huge festival we are planning in Africa for November, when we announce the Prize winners and celebrate the inspiration of this year’s artists.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to email me – my email is ajf@freedomtocreate.com


Thank you!

Amanda

That is really interesting. I have never really thought about doing art work for Muslim women. This art is beautiful though. A little eerie but also very well done. I really appreciate you sharing this! Thanks so much! www.beirut.com