Please give us a brief overview of your career to date
Originally hailing from London, I've been dividing my time between the UK and Cape Town since 2015. My academic journey began with a Bachelor's (Hons) degree in Curating and Communications from Central St Martins, University of the Arts, followed by a master’s degree in the history of Art, Architecture, and Archaeology of the Islamic Near and Middle East from SOAS, London. Recently, I achieved a significant milestone by obtaining my Doctorate in Management of Technology and Innovation. My research centred on Integral approaches to art advocacy, visual literacy, and engagement within Cape Town's Muslim communities.
One of my proudest accomplishments is my role as the founder of MASHŪRAH ARTS, where I lead collaborative endeavors aimed at nurturing and showcasing art practices with a distinctive emphasis on Muslim epistemologies.
Throughout my career, beyond my roles in curating and writing, I've had the privilege of making meaningful contributions to esteemed institutions such as Bonham's, Edge of Arabia, The British Arab Centre, The Ismaili Institute, Art Africa magazine, Gallery MOMO, Jaffer Modern Gallery, and the Void Gallery in Northern Ireland.
My scholarly pursuits reflect a wide spectrum of interests, spanning from exploring the artistic and cultural exchanges between Muslim civilizations and the West to delving into diasporic communities, Near and Middle Eastern knowledge systems, and the captivating intersection of art and technology.
Please provide us with a blurb on the purpose of your research and its contribution
In my doctoral journey, I immersed myself in the intricate world of art within the Muslim context, with a focus on Cape Town, South Africa. As a curator, I posed a crucial question: How can Art Advocacy, Visual Literacy, and Engagement within Cape Town's Muslim communities be elevated to amplify their presence in the local art scene? This inquiry was sparked by a realization in 2015, which unveiled the absence of Muslim voices in the city's artistic narrative due to various challenges such as socio-economic barriers, political complexities, religious intolerance, and a limited understanding of Islam in the South African art sphere.
My study aimed to strengthen Art Advocacy, Visual Literacy, and Engagement among Cape Town's Muslim population. I focused on three pivotal aspects: Art Advocacy to provide support for artists, particularly within the Muslim community; Visual Literacy to explore unique perspectives on art within Muslim culture; and Engagement to assess community involvement and contributions to the local art scene.
Guided by the Process of Holistic Development (PHD) within the Integral Research framework, my doctoral journey was characterized by collaboration and innovation, striving for tangible change through the MASHŪRAH process and the establishment of the MASHŪRAH Arts initiative. This approach, aligned with Mode 2 social research, aimed at promoting social innovation and addressing societal imbalances.
Drawing upon a range of research methodologies, including Hermeneutics, Phenomenology, Critical Theory, and Feminist Theories, my research journey culminated in the creation of MASHŪRAH Arts—an organization dedicated to advancing Advocacy, Visual Literacy, and Engagement within Muslim art communities. The inaugural exhibition 'MASHŪRAH,' held at Greatmore Studios in Cape Town, generated significant Social Return on Investment (SROI) for the community. It fostered a sense of belonging, raised awareness, facilitated storytelling, encouraged dialogue, spurred innovation, facilitated knowledge exchange, and promoted inclusivity within Muslim art communities, making a distinct and invaluable contribution to Cape Town's cultural landscape.
What would you say your three greatest attributes or characteristics are as a person that aided you on your journey?
Reflecting on my journey, I would say resilience, self-critique, and optimism have been key attributes. Resilience has helped me bounce back from setbacks, while self-critique has driven personal growth. Optimism has kept me motivated even in tough times.
In a few words, describe your journey to completing your qualification.
My journey to completing my Doctorate was a transformative experience characterized by perseverance, dedication, and continuous learning. It was a challenging path filled with obstacles and setbacks, but each hurdle served as an opportunity for personal and academic growth. Through rigorous research, countless hours of study, and unwavering determination, I navigated through the complexities of academia, refining my skills, expanding my knowledge, and honing my expertise in my field of study.
How did your journey impact your way of thinking and (or) life?
My Doctorate journey has profoundly impacted my thinking and life. Academically, it broadened my perspective and deepened my understanding, fostering creativity and resilience. Personally, it instilled perseverance and adaptability, teaching me to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Moreover, it emphasized the importance of collaboration and community, shaping my approach to relationships and interactions. Overall, it has been transformative, guiding me with purpose and resilience in both academic and personal endeavours.
What is next for you on your path of remarkability?
I am currently engaged in independent projects aimed at expanding my practice, while also continuing the impactful work I initiated with MASHŪRAH ARTS.
If you could give advice to a student embarking on this journey, what would it be?
Advice for doctoral students: Stay resilient and focused, seek support when needed, prioritize self-care, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Remain curious, open-minded, and passionate about your research journey.