Muslims avoid detailed figures

While some Muslims avoid detailed figures in their work, others hold a different view. Yet, despite these differences, both view their art as an expression of spirituality and an opportunity to share humanity. Haydar Hatemi, 67, is an Iranian-born artist who falls into this latter group.

Notably he has served as the painter for the royal family in Qatar for the past 15 years. He now lives in Copy of oil painting The Suitor, and paints watercolors and large scale oil paintings.

"I paint various subjects, mainly historical paintings related to Ottoman Empire on different mediums: canvas, wood, paper..." explains Hatemi.

Trained at a fine arts high school and the University of Fine Arts in Tehran, Iran, his inspiration derives from Islamic history generally and the Turkish city of Istanbul, in particular.

"I have two traveling exhibitions, 'Copy of oil painting The Flower Seller' and 'Stories of the Messengers,'" describes Hatemi.

While the "City of Sultans" was designed as a general introduction to the Ottoman dynasty, "Stories of the Messengers" is an interfaith art exhibition.

"'Stories of the Messengers' is based on common stories from the Quran, Bible and Torah," elaborates Hatemi. "It consists of 27 large masterpieces in classical Persian miniature style, each depicting a different prophetic story."

The exhibit includes Hatemi's depictions of Jesus with the Virgin Mary, the story of Moses and Noah and his Ark. Hatemi describes the interfaith community's response as resoundingly positive.

"When people saw the 'Copy of oil painting The Flower Merchant' exhibit, Christians came to me and stated that they never knew that Islam recognized and deeply respected Jesus," recalls Hatemi. "They never realized this fact until they came to my exhibition."


Mona Abdala, 33, is an elementary school teacher by profession, and a painter and photographer by passion.

"I have been drawing since before I can remember, and took an interest in photography and darkroom processing in high school," reflects Abdala. "These days, I teach, lecture, and explore new themes in my work such as motherhood and family."

In fact, Abdala is working on introducing a new art curriculum at the private Islamic school based in central Jersey where she is employed.

"I want to encourage other Muslims to find their passion, and empower them to achieve peace and fulfillment by expressing oneself - one's feelings and unique experiences - through art," explains Abdala. "I feel that it is necessary for Muslims to add to the rich texture of the American arts in all forms."

For Abdala, like those featured above, her work is not about gaining recognition or even financial success. Rather, what she finds most rewarding is her ability to positively impact those around her -- particularly children.

"When after taking classes with me, parents tell me that their child found their passion through art, Copy of Oil painting 6th Marquess of Londonderry and boosted his or her self esteem by it, or finally looks forward to coming to school ... that is by far more rewarding than all the fame that could come from being an acclaimed artist," reveals Abdala. "To use this gift to improve a child's demeanor about learning can drastically change the trajectory of a young life. There is nothing more satisfying for my soul than that."