PORTFOLIO > ACRYLIC

“Not Impressed” was inspired the ironically conflicting ways that Muslim women are viewed and portrayed in today’s society: infantile and in need of protection, mysterious and erotic, holy and pure. These stereotypes are laid across the shoulders of Muslim women daily, from both the secular and religious communities. The constant effort to present one’s true essence despite the persistent labels and associated vitriol can be frustrating, irritating, and exhausting. This experience is certainly not unique to Muslim women. The burden of being the “other” has been carried by many throughout history, and the emotional toll of carrying such a weight is the subject of this piece.