Al-Qalam 
By Sana Ebrahim
To commemorate Women’s Month, Tawakul – South Africa’s first Islamic crowd-funding site – has launched the “WOMEN of ART for AID series” to support Covid-19 relief efforts through their creative talents.
From unleashing beauty into the world to serving as social commentary, the aesthetic value of art is all-encompassing and artists are stepping up to support Covid-19 relief efforts through using their creative talents.
Founder of Tawakul, South Africa, Hoosen Essof says: “This initiative has so many layers. We never expected so many artists to participate – of the 70 on a WhatsApp group created within a week, to date some 50 artists have donated over 65 pieces of art.
“But what stands out for me, besides the sincerity of the artists, is that many are giving exquisite pieces of art which ordinarily would sell for hundreds of rands. The artworks are not just strokes of a brush on a canvas. You must see the quality of the art to understand that the artists have put heart and soul into their pieces and to give that away for free – that is remarkable. May Allah accept their niyyah, ameen.”
Johannesburg artist, Maleeha Choonara has submitted four artworks. “Tawakul has created a unique initiative… I am honoured as a female Muslim artist to have been given the chance to participate in this wonderful fundraiser. I have also discovered so many amazing fellow artists through Tawakul,” says Choonara.
Cape Town artist Widad Sirkhotte has submitted two art pieces. “The artworks are Turkish marbled paper (Ebru) which has been carefully cut in the shape of the name of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon his noble soul). These were specifically made for this initiative.”
“These past weeks, I have reflected much about Covid-19 and the purpose of life on the Dunya, which has led me to think about the Qur’anic ayah (21:107) regarding Prophet Muhammad (SAWS) being sent as a mercy to all of humankind.
“The Tawakul Women of Art for Aid Initiative has given me a space to express myself. To have donated these works, is just an added benefit to let more people think about their purpose and be reminded about the Prophet’s way of thinking about and approaching situations,” says Sirkhotte.
Exhibition
Durban artist Rehana Khan has submitted 12 paintings. “I was planning for my first solo exhibition and believe it or not, I had intended to do so last year in August but moved it to August this year, to highlight the status of Women in Islam and to contribute any income from sales to charity.
“So when I received the request for participation in the Women of Art for Aid Initiative, I did so without hesitation. It was such an automatic response.
“It seemed like Almighty Allah had organised this platform for me to exhibit my work, just as I intended, Ahamdulillah. It is truly a blessing to be in a position where my skill can be put to use to help raise funds for Covid-19 relief,” says Khan.
Nelspruit artist Firoza Omar has submitted three Dome of the Rock themed art pieces. “Alhamdulillah, a step taken towards any aid in our current crisis regarding the pandemic is reason for support.” Brother Hoosen brought about a brilliant initiative congregating artists from all over South Africa.
“The public should motivate and support the artists, who have sponsored their efforts and time, and donating the artwork. The artists humbly request your support to donate towards this esteemed project. My ‘Snow on the Dome of the Rock’ fetched huge sums of monies for various organisations and is currently at home in Palestine’s house of parliament. The hand that gives is always blessed,” says Omar.
Support the ‘WOMEN of ART for AID’ Initiative by donating towards your favourite artwork during August. The beneficiary is the Islamic Medical Association (IMA) Covid-19 relief fund.
Donations do not lead to acquiring the artwork. Following August, an online art auction will be held where artworks can be acquired.
Visit https://tawakul.org/campaigns/community. For more information, contact admin@tawakul.org.
