Amal’s starting point was the urgent need to change the dominant, negative narrative around Muslims in the UK. Over seven wonderful years, we provided opportunities that would not otherwise have existed for Muslims to unleash their creative potential and so to tell their own stories – and for us all to connect with these stories and so to understand each other better. A growing Amal community worked and walked with Amal – partners, artists, participants, funders, advisers and friends. Amal’s mission, more urgent than ever, continues through them. We invite you to explore this site to see the richness and diversity of Muslim creativity. We invite you to help change the narrative to one that is confident, diverse and just.
Print & Matter gave Muslims in Birmingham the skills and a platform to explore connections between religious practice and artistic expression.
Our Stories Through Nakshi Kantha, Birmingham
Women captured stories of their journeys from Bangladesh to Birmingham through drama techniques and told them through Nakshi Kantha, an embroidery heritage art form.
A pioneering dance project modelled a network of UK-based Muslim breakers, taking to the streets and spaces of Bradford and beyond.
A new form of Nasheed music blending Muslim, British and South Asian heritages was performed by boys previously new to singing to a packed Bradford Cathedral.
Amal at Greenbelt 2017, Kettering
Amal showcased 80 Muslim artists at Greenbelt Festival, bringing people together through music, drama, dance, food and discussion.
Young Muslims of mainly Somali heritage supported each other in exploring the issues that affect them as Black Muslims in weekly creative writing sessions.
Theatre Without Walls, Multiple Locations
Amal supported Khayaal to develop new Muslim heritage and multifaith stories and to deliver performances across the country.
Soul City Arts modelled its “signature” event - the interaction of community participation, live art, food and sharing cross-cultural stories.
Read the Impact Story