Qissa: Narratives of Muslim Women

This exhibition brought together works by Muslim artists who explored the gendered experiences of Sri Lankan Muslim women through different lenses. Through visual and textual storytelling, they examined the lives of Muslim girls and women—their capacity to define complex identities and craft authentic narratives beyond those imposed by patriarchal figures.
It delved into the weight of women's lived experiences: the burdens carried, the resilience forged, and the struggles endured.

The exhibition acknowledged the complexities of a faith where Muslim women have historically held positions of power
and been recognized as man's twin equal, yet whose rights are often overlooked in present-day Islamic society.
As the Quran states:

"And for women are rights over men similar to those of men over women." (2:226)

At its core, this exhibition provided a safe space for women to reclaim and redefine their identities beyond inherited
or assigned roles. By amplifying women's voices and perspectives, we sparked critical discussions on autonomy, representation, and the right to make choices about their own lives. We created space for women to reflect on their experiences and engage in dialogue about the evolving realities of their lives.