EXHIBITS

MUSEUM OF ISLAMIC ART

Our community artist, Bilal Hamoud, will host the Museum of Islamic Art exhibit. Hamoud will display an art collection that contains pieces from a multitude of historical and diverse geographical backgrounds. The various sections of the exhibit include calligraphy, pottery, symmetrical geometry patterns, and traditional craftsmanship. The exploration of themes in the exhibition will create a space to encounter the inclusive culture of Islam through its visual language. The approach will attempt to raise questions of cultural significance for each object in order to build bridges between different cultures, and encourage intercultural dialogue at an artistic level.

FOOD AND FASTING (RAMADHAN)

Are you curious about what Muslims can or cannot eat, and why? Have you ever wondered what the term ‘halal’ means? This exhibit will explain the concepts of halal (lawful) and haram (forbidden) foods, and other dietary rulings in Islam. To address the significance and benefits of fasting, this exhibit will answer all your questions about the month of Ramadan, in which Muslims fast during daylight hours from sunrise to sunset every day. It will showcase the inclusive atmosphere of Islam, concentrating on the underprivileged section of society.

PILGRIMAGE (HAJJ)

This exhibit will take you on a journey through ‘Hajj,’ the annual pilgrimage to Mecca. It will showcase the spiritual, historical, and physical significance of the holy pilgrimage, which is obligatory for all Muslims at least once in their lifetime. It will explore the ‘Kaaba’ (the black cube) and its importance, links to other Abrahamic faiths, and the unity and inclusion of racial minorities and cultures that are evident in Hajj.

THE HOLY QUR’AN

This exhibit will introduce the Holy Qur’an, its history, its influences on art and calligraphy, and its links to other Abrahamic faiths. Guests are invited to explore the diversity and richness of this holy book, from its thought-provoking messages and stories and its miracles, to the various presentations of scripts and recitations and inclusion of all people, especially those in marginalized sectors of society.

MODESTY (HIJAB)

This exhibit will foster discussion and answer questions about the concept and significance of hijab and modesty, for both men and women in Islam. It will also address the role and contribution of women in Islam and the wider society. Our exhibitors will be available to discuss cultural interpretations of hijab, and clear misconceptions about the role of hijab in Islam.

JIHAD (STRIVING)

This exhibit will clarify the concept of ‘Jihad’ in Islam. Our exhibitors will address the history and importance of human rights in Islam, clear misconceptions and mis-portrayals by the media, and discuss the mainstream understanding of Jihad. The exhibit will explore the meaning of jihad from a theological and Qur’anic standpoint, and address Islam’s inclusive view on religious minorities.

PRAYERS (SALAAT)

This exhibit will address one of the foundations of the Islamic faith — daily prayers (salaat). It will focus on the concept and significance of prayers, its direction (qibla), the times of prayer, and the manner in which salaat is performed. It will also address personal supplications (duas), and ablution (wudhu), a cleansing ritual. The exhibit will also present the inclusion of people with various disabilities into places of worship, mosques, and Muslim communities.

PROPHET MUHAMMAD AND 12 LEADERS (IMAMS)

This exhibit will focus on the Prophet Muhammad and the prominent leaders of the Shia Ithna Ashari school. The focus will be on their characteristics, their contributions to Islam, and their diverse influences on modern science, justice, government, and their inclusion of various marginalized groups into Muslim society. It will highlight Lady Fatima , the Prophet’s daughter, as an exemplary woman in Islam. It will also discuss the connections between Islam and other Abrahamic faiths, and the Shia belief in the living leader, the Mahdi .

WHO IS HUSSAIN (MUHARRAM)

This exhibit will cover the commemoration of the month of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar. It will highlight the character of Hussain, his motivation and values, the universal relevance and inspiration drawn from his struggle, and his inclusion of groups such as the elderly and political minorities. The exhibit will explain and display the forms of commemoration and interpretation of Hussain’s message around the world. This exhibit will be presented by Who is Hussain? Vancouver.

Non-Profit and Charitable organizations founded by community members of the Az-Zahraa Islamic Centre will also be present during the evening to talk about their humanitarian activities locally and internationally, and to discuss ways to get involved with their initiatives.