In Praise was an inaugural exhibition celebrating the work of emerging Muslim women artists and poets from the Midlands and beyond. Curated by Rashida Osman, the show offered a multi-sensory experience that blended visual art, poetry, and faith. It was a landmark moment in Leicester’s Islamic arts scene, funded by Arts Council England.

At its heart, the Illuminate Project reflects the rich Islamic tradition of holistic well-being, recognising that mental, emotional, and spiritual health are deeply intertwined. Islam has a longstanding legacy in the field of Islamic psychology, with scholars such as Al-Razi, Al-Balkhi, and Ibn Sina who understood that emotional balance is essential for a healthy life. They emphasised the importance of nurturing both the heart and mind, showing that healing is not only about physical health but also emotional and spiritual care. This holistic approach is central to the Illuminate Project, which uses art as a powerful tool for self-exploration and healing.

Illuminate: Sacred Threads is a new phase of my community arts project exploring the intersection of faith, art, and mental health. Running from September 2025 – February 2026 at Attenborough Arts Centre, the programme offers free creative workshops in embroidery, printmaking, ceramics, and zine-making.

Designed especially to support Muslim communities in Leicester, these workshops create a welcoming space to share stories, nurture wellbeing, and explore cultural memory through art. The project will culminate in a co-created exhibition from April 2026.