A Journey

At first it was a crown of shining glory, then it became a source of difficult questions and even harder choices, and now it is an important part of her past. As is the case with many Muslim women, the participant who inspired this series proudly wore hijaab for many years until she just couldn't do it any more.

Wearing the hijaab in America is a courageous act that is typically driven by deeply held convictions. Reversing that decision (i.e., ceasing to wear the hijaab in public) can be emotionally and spiritually traumatizing. It also makes the woman vulnerable to questioning and criticism from family, friends, and even strangers. It too is a courageous step; just in a different way.

This work in the series spans over 3 canvases, instead of just one.