Veiling Light

Light, within Islamic philosophy, symbolises the divine presence in the world. It is extensively utilised in contemporary Islamic art, where illumination is especially present to underscore the sacredness of the scripture and to evoke spiritual awe in readers. However, it is often also employed as a tool of censorship by devout individuals to restrict the depiction of Allah, the Prophet, or any sentient being.

Art, though, serves as a potent tool for liberation, resonating deeply with humanity and challenging societal norms. Today, censorship has become more violent, taking place around many parts of the world. This artwork centres on western censorship against Palestinian voices as a research focus point, reflecting the ongoing injustices and raising crucial questions: Who decides the limits of artistic expression, rising racism, and hatred of Muslims, and who enforces the veiling light today?

Photos by Hosny Salah