MOOZ-LUM

Tuesday July 24, 2012

Mooz-lum is a movie that offers a different perspective on Muslim/Islam than what is normally portrayed. Inspired by the movie, I decided embrace some of the aesthetics of the religion, as well as, its relations.  Starring Evan Ross as, devout Muslim, Tariq Mahdi wrestles with his religious identity while attending college in the US following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The movie is an engrossing entertainment that keeps you out of your seat. As you begin to see how your religion becomes your identity even when you despise it. 

Like most Muslims/Islams, or even Christians, the male wheres a kufi hat to show pride in their culture, history, and religion. I was not able to locate a kufi hat, so I improvised by wearing my Arab scarf headpiece.  This gave the impression of  a Muslim/Islam eccentric piece.  The overcast blue denim symbolized the conservative persona most religious people carry. The vintage brown shows trials and tribulation a person of a Muslim/Islam religion must face; as well as, religious people in general. It is here that I stand before a US Postal mailbox near a rustic brick wall, sitting high like the twin towers and eyes pointed with a direct-sharp stare. The blue denim also gives a feeling of distance, which most artist use to show perspective. Allowing us to look beyond and increase our perspective outward. In reference, my choose of color speaks truth to the movie Mooz-lum. For is it trying create a new perspective of Muslims/Islams; bringing a unspoken truth to the light. The movie encourages a feelings of communication and peace. With this look, I do so by making eye-contact with the viewer and standing in a relaxing posture. 

As people we all face an identity crisis. Wondering everyday "who we are?", "what our purpose is?", and "how does the world perceive us?". We allow "people to shape our opinion on an entire faith". Letting them control every second of our lives. Tariq's decision to face his past, and no longer let a person dictate his beliefs. He was able to become free from all despair.  His story speaks truth to my self-discovery. Since there is so many people in this world struggling with their identity. The message I share with the world is: "Examine ideas further and develop your own conclusions---for no one can teach you more about your faith than yourself." 

  

Note: To watch the video in HD, please check out THE PROVERBS VIMEO, click here
 
headpiece: thrift-ed  // shirt: h&m // jeans: cheap monday // necklace: vintage // shoes: vintage

"The only way things work is if people support; two are better than one."