Muslim-American Perspectives

The voices of communities are most vividly expressed through the arts. This page introduces arts and entertainment produced by Muslim-American artists and performers. It is only a dip of the toe into a large and diverse pool of talent. Please email me your comments and suggestions, or use the "Comments" link in each box. Robyn Ferrero, robyn.ferrero@lesley.edu

Spotlighting the work of four Boston-based female artists from Iran, Pakistan, Morocco, and Saudi Arabia, this site addresses a lack of exhibits by contemporary Muslim artists in Boston’s galleries and museums, a void that reinforces the perception that Muslim art is limited to calligraphy and rugs. Boston is home to a vibrant scene of stereotype-shattering artistic innovators from across the Muslim world.

American-Muslim artists are creating their own genre with rap, hip-hop, rock and country music. Their work blends their Islamic faith with calls for peace and social justice. Reported by the Pluralism Project of Harvard University, this paper introduces the musicians, their styles and contribution to a pluralistic society.

Read the report and check out a few samples of their music..

Photo: Kareem Salama

American Identity, Muslim Identity - NYTimes interview

From left, the filmmaker Musa Syeed; the memoirist and graphic novelist G. Willow Wilson and the playwright Ayad Akhtar. Three artists conduct a joint interview about the representation of American Muslims in popular culture. (Credit Photographs by Emon Hassan for The New York Times.)