WHO/WHY:

"More than my Religion" (MTMR) is an outreach effort on behalf of the New England Muslim community. Using art as a medium to communicate a message of inclusivity and peaceful coexistence, MTMR has hosted several exhibitions of the course of the last 4 years in the Boston and Providence areas. MTMR seeks to counter stereotypical opinions about a group of people portrayed through the media or through divides that people may form based on preconceived bias. We believe the power of art transcends the boundaries of language, culture, nationality and faith, and through the creative energy of visual art, we can overcome these differences. MTMR is an individual initiative of concerned citizens, and is not funded from any source.

Irum Haque

An educator by profession, Irum Haque is a Language Department Head at a private school for students with language based learning difficulties. Haque has received several awards for her work, and is a co-convenor for an annual art event highlighting work by local and well-known Muslim artists. 

“The process of bringing something alive on paper or canvas has always been a great source of pleasure and creative satisfaction for me,” Haque said. “I believe that art not only gives us respite from routines and preoccupations but it is also a powerful tool for change.” 

Ehsun Mirza, MD is the Chief of Medicine and Director of ICU at Kent County Hospital in Warwick, RI. He immigrated to the United States from Paksitan in 1993, and has been in RI since 1999. Ehsun is a passionate amateur photographer and painter. “I am honored to be part of this wonderful concept where we can use art as a form of bridge to break down barriers and improve inter-community understanding and harmony,” Mirza said.

 

WHAT:

This year the historical town of Lexington MA will host MTMR from September 1st through October 27th, after which the exhibition will move to the Massachusetts State House from October 28th till November 1st. Gallery receptions will be held at both venues where the general public will have an opportunity to hear MTMR’s message and engage in dialog. 

Each exhibition features artworks by named and local artists, juried by a professional in the field.  These include Jill Brody, renowned Rhode Island photographer, Dr. John Smith, Director RISD Art Museums. For 2019, Laura Weinstein, Curator of South Asian and Islamic Art at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston has graciously provided her expertise to help MTMR with its selection process. 

 

WHERE/WHEN:

Lexington, MA: 

September 7th: Cary Library on 1874 Massachusetts Ave from 1pm-3pm 

October 19th: Artist Panel Talk at Cary Library, 1874 Massachusetts Ave, 2pm-4pm 

October 28th (10:30-12pm) at the Massachusetts State House, 25 Beacon Street, Boston, MA

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