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Women of Courage Women of Courage is an ongoing monumental series of portraits. Each painting depicts a woman that has embodied courage and nurtured those qualities in others. She is an inspiration to young people to persevere and have the courage to follow those precious dreams. In addition to several historic icons that could not be overlooked, portraits include women who have demonstrated extraordinary acts of bravery. Among these women are educators, mothers and friends-all have set examples-instilling harmony and peace in each of us. Beyond Boundaries: My Paintings are observations of humanity. Each of us is unique in the universe yet shape, form and color remind us we are elements in nature. My art is an expression that explores beyond cultural barriers, revealing that we are all connected. Beyond Boundaries is a series of portraits celebrating women who have pushed beyond boundaries, dared to imagine, and live their dreams. THE VEIL:
My paintings represent a cultural journey culminating in sixteen portraits. The journey began when I came upon a statement voiced by Al-Mubarak of Iraq, "My head is covered but not my brain!" I was electrified by Al-Mubarak's proclamation. It became a mantra, catapulting me into an expedition of religion, culture and psyche.
The custom of veiling and seclusion precedes the Islamic culture by thousands of years. Assyria, Greco-Rome and the Byzantine empires are among the cultures that embraced the veil. However it was during the late ninth century, approximately 150 years after Mohammad's divine revelation resulting in the Koran, the prestige of women rapidly disintegrated. Veiling began to appear as a common rule to be followed in the tenth century. Soon after the introduction of the Sahih (correct book) literate men made it a custom to veil their women. This custom coincided with the introduction of the Arabic alphabet. During the Middle Ages laws evolved which often decreed that women were to be restricted in activities outside their homes. It was considered "suggestive" if a woman exposed her wrists in public.
In the late nineteenth century debate regarding women's protective clothing was a result of the concern to advance more toward Western society. By abandoning the veil and seclusion, it was believed women would have the opportunity toward better education. Having been accustomed to the protective "cocoon" of the veil, some women expressed concern that implementing such a change might be premature and damaging. An educational process was needed to ensure a better understanding of the world outside the home.
The revival of modest dress and veiling progressed into the twentieth century. Among the reasons for adopting the veil were the defiance of the Western styles, silent demonstrations and the reaffirmation of nation identity. For some, wearing Hijab symbolized superiority and uniqueness. Unfortunately, for many, it signified oppression. The word "hijab" literally means "curtain". As instructed during Mohammad's era on how to conduct one's self around the prophet's wives: "If you ask his wives for anything, speak to them from behind a curtain. This is purer for your hearts and their hearts."
When I began this journey, I expected to find a clear message as to why the veil continues to be so mysterious. Veiled women have been the topic of controversy since Mary Magdalene. In the 21st Century women's rights, gender persecution and oppression are concerns just as they were over 1,000 years ago. For the final portrait I embraced myself in the American flag. I felt protected and safe, yet connected in spirit to the 15 others I had painted.
"Say: O unbelievers! I will not worship that which ye worship, nor will ye worship that which I worship…Ye have your religion, and I have my religion." The Koran, The Chapter of the Unbelievers.
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