About this Event
Artist Ayesha Kamal and Umar John, with special guests Dr. Sajid Tarar, Chairman of Muslims of America and Dr. Jasdip Singh Jesse, Chairman of Sikhs of America, will discuss the exhibition "Beyond Words: The Sacred Art of Ayesha Kamal" Contemporary Islamic Calligraphy & Spiritual Expression, in a gallery talk scheduled for
Saturday, 2:00- 3:00pm
About the exhibition:
September 5–December 6
Organized by Hummingbird Film Studios
Beyond Words: The Sacred Art of Ayesha Kamal showcases the work of internationally exhibited contemporary Islamic calligrapher Ayesha Kamal through a remarkable collection of large-scale mixed-media paintings that explore the enduring relationship between faith, artistic expression, and cultural heritage. Drawing upon the rich traditions of Islamic calligraphy, the exhibition reveals how sacred text can be reimagined through a distinctly contemporary artistic vision.
Drawing inspiration from verses of the Holy Qur'an, Asma-ul-Husna (The Beautiful Names of Allah), and centuries of Islamic artistic tradition, Ayesha Kamal transforms sacred text into immersive visual experiences that extend beyond words through intricate calligraphy, expressive textures, luminous metallic elements, and richly layered compositions. Her work invites visitors to experience these sacred texts not simply as language, but as timeless visual expressions that inspire contemplation, reveal beauty, and foster human connection.
Organized by Hummingbird Film Studios, this exhibition celebrates the continuing evolution of Islamic calligraphy as a vibrant contemporary art form while fostering meaningful dialogue across cultures and communities. Whether encountering Arabic calligraphy for the first time or returning to it through lifelong familiarity, visitors are invited on a visual journey where heritage meets innovation and art becomes a universal language that transcends borders and beliefs.
This event will be held in-person at the museum.
Please direct any questions about this event to the museum's main contact for this event, Patricia Poku-Speight at [email protected].
Image: Ayesha Kamal, Asma-ul-Husna and Ayat ul Kursi IV, 2022. Mixed media on canvas, 48 x 48 inches.
Event venue & nearby stays
American University Museum at the Katzen Arts Center, 4400 Massachusetts Avenue Northwest, Washington, United States
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