Rania Adamjee

Ilm O Amal

"Ilm O Amal" 5' x 9' Acrylic and collage on canvas

“My triptych explores the contrast between lived Islamic practices and the stereotypes often imposed by Western media. After moving to Canada at eleven, I became aware of how differently Islam is perceived compared to my upbringing in Pakistan.The work reflects on how media shapes these misconceptions, presenting Islam as complex, ordered, and reflective rather than extremist or one-dimensional. Across three canvases, I reimagine Islamic geometric patterns using skin-tone references drawn from a “Terrorist Colour Chart,” linking race to stereotype. The calligraphy Ilm-O-Amal, inspired by Sadequain’s Frere Hall mural, symbolizes Islam as rooted in knowledge and practice, while being filled with tabloid imagery that reflects common misconceptions. Layered patterns from Abdullah Shah Ghazi’s shrine evoke protection and spirituality, countering these narratives.Through fragmentation and layering, the work invites closer viewing and challenges internal biases, highlighting the gap between representation and lived reality while humanizing Muslim experiences.”