Modern Art Oxford artist Farwa Moledina: 'Art is a really powerful tool'
Following the refurbishment of Modern Art Oxford, Farwa Moldedina discusses the importance of art and how it’s strengthening communities in an exclusive interview.
Modern Art Oxford re-opened to the public this month after being closed during the summer for a £2m re-vamp of its welcome area, education centre and a new exhibition space.
According to Paul Hobson, the director of Modern Art Oxford, the aim of the remodel was to accommodate ‘rapidly growing participation work’.
The new space will be host to a variety of exhibitions featuring works from local artists including The Platform Graduate Award 2024 scheme which showcases the works of Oxford Brookes University, and Ruskin School of Art, University of Oxford graduates.
Farwa Moledina, an Emirate Artist, based in Birmingham, UK, will be showcasing her work in December, collaborating with local groups of Muslim parents and children from Oxford.
When asked about the importance of art and its significance in expressing one’s religious beliefs, Moledina responded: “Art is a powerful tool in providing an education on different faiths and cultures and creating a more unified community” She added: “Also displaying faith and culture-based artwork is a great way to create space in contemporary spaces for voices that are underrepresented”.
So, with this in mind how does art bring together and strengthen communities?
Art is often used as a platform for voicing one’s cultural identity. Moledina embodies this idea by taking inspiration from her own cultural background, using patterns heavily influenced by popular Islamic designs. Her work often features themes of faith, family and the history of Muslim women, portraying female independence. By collaborating with Muslim parents and children from Oxford, Moledina uses her standing in the industry to shed light on Islam and the beauty of the religion.
As well as Moledina’s work and The Platform Graduate Scheme, there is a display of 50 works belonging to the late Cuban artist, Belkis Ayón, who died in 1999 and was well known for her work focusing on Afro Cuban religious groups.