How a Foreign Kid Became a Photographer
Session Title
Professional Practices in Creative Expressions 2
College
College of Visual and Performing Arts
Department
Fine Arts
Faculty Mentor
Anne Fiala, M.F.A.
Abstract
As many people don’t know, I was born in Pakistan and raised in Saudi Arabia. A 10-year-old Muslim girl entering a foreign country (The United States of America) is far more complex than an adult can assume. My life was very vague but extraordinary. In school, I was known as the new “Muslim terrorist” kid. For quite a few years, I was lost and reserved. Art was the only way I knew how to express and communicate with my peers. It helped me become the confident, strong woman I am, as of today. My motivation comes from my background and my faith in God. It allows me to be who I am and manifest my creativity. The majority of my work is inspired by my culture and the hatred I received when I was young. I felt like I needed to express my frustration through my work because it was a way for me to feel happy and let non-Muslims know that Muslims are not a threat. I was also fascinated and intrigued by the bright colors of my cultural fashion clothes. Bright colors were another way to express my cheerful feelings. I wanted to take advantage of my skills to educate my peers that wearing cultural clothes or praying on a prayer mat is not a bomb threat. We are embracing our culture and praying to God.
Course Assignment
ARTS 491 - Fiala
Type of Presentation
Oral presentation
How a Foreign Kid Became a Photographer
As many people don’t know, I was born in Pakistan and raised in Saudi Arabia. A 10-year-old Muslim girl entering a foreign country (The United States of America) is far more complex than an adult can assume. My life was very vague but extraordinary. In school, I was known as the new “Muslim terrorist” kid. For quite a few years, I was lost and reserved. Art was the only way I knew how to express and communicate with my peers. It helped me become the confident, strong woman I am, as of today. My motivation comes from my background and my faith in God. It allows me to be who I am and manifest my creativity. The majority of my work is inspired by my culture and the hatred I received when I was young. I felt like I needed to express my frustration through my work because it was a way for me to feel happy and let non-Muslims know that Muslims are not a threat. I was also fascinated and intrigued by the bright colors of my cultural fashion clothes. Bright colors were another way to express my cheerful feelings. I wanted to take advantage of my skills to educate my peers that wearing cultural clothes or praying on a prayer mat is not a bomb threat. We are embracing our culture and praying to God.
