(OKLAHOMA CITY, OK, 11/19/13) – On Wednesday, November 20, the Oklahoma chapter of Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-OK) will host their third annual Art in the Heartland exhibition at Will Rogers Theater. This special, one-evening showcase serves as an opportunity for Oklahoma Muslim artists to display their work, express their identities as both Oklahomans and Muslims and create a space for broader dialogue within the arts community.
“Art in the Heartland is a unique opportunity for Oklahomans to see the state through the creative talents of Oklahoma Muslims,” said CAIR-OK Executive Director Adam Soltani. “The experiences of Oklahoma Muslims are unique, given their diverse backgrounds and perspectives.”
WHEN: Wednesday, November 20, 7-9 p.m.
WHERE: Will Rogers Theater, 4322 N. Western Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73118
CONTACT: CAIR-OK Executive Director Adam Soltani, 405-248-5853, asoltani@cair.com
SEE: Art in the Heartland Artist Lineup
http://www.cairoklahoma.com/event/3rd_annual_art_in_the_heartland_okc.html
Art in the Heartland is a local initiative inspired by the cultural diversity of Islam in Oklahoma, and offers an outlet for Oklahoma Muslims to combat stereotypes and build bridges of understanding through creative expression. The participating artists hail from Oklahoma City, Edmond and Norman, and represent a true crossroads of the state’s Muslim community, spanning a variety of backgrounds, ethnicities, and ages. This diversity is reflected in their artwork, as this year’s participants engage art through photography, painting, music, textiles, poetry, and more.
“After developing Art in the Heartland in 2011 as my internship project, it is very exciting, as well as extremely promising that the event maintained interest and greater artist participation continues to grow and attract diverse audiences,” said Thomaira Babbit, CAIR-OK Development Coordinator. “When the right words cannot be expressed to communicate your feelings or understanding, or a lack thereof, sometimes all that is needed is a paintbrush and canvas board to articulate your message.”
This year marks the third year CAIR-OK will be hosting their Art in the Heartland showcase.
CAIR-OK is a chapter of America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.
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CONTACT: CAIR-OK Executive Director Adam Soltani, 405-248-5853, asoltani@cair.com; CAIR-OK Development Coordinator Thomaira Babbit, 405-415-6851, tbabbit@cair.com