Created during Shahena's three-month artist residency, this period saw her celebrating her birthday and Ramadan—an experience she hopes is reflected in the exhibition through nostalgia and spirituality.
Through the art of journaling with drawings and text, Shahena explores her struggles with identity, touching on themes of colourism, gentrification in East London, her homeland Bangladesh, and the conflicts in Muslim lands, which she sees as part of her larger family (ummah).
Inspired by photography, walks, and her personal experiences growing up in East London, Shahena uses her love for art to express her thoughts and to celebrate multiculturalism. Her doodling and illustrative style reflects her inner child and sense of freedom, which she finds the best way to journal and face her experiences and thoughts playfully.
As part of the exhibition, Shahena collaborated with a group of local children to explore themes of fantasy and create a collaborative city, promoting creativity and confidence through art.
After coming across an article about Colourism by “Fatima Rajina”, She also aims to raise awareness and spark conversations about colourism. Her 'brown buildings' celebrate the beauty of skin through the architecture of Bethnal Green, and her love for spiritual buildings is evident throughout.
Having lived in East London all her life, Shahena has observed the area's changes and feels nervous about losing her Muslim and Bengali roots. She tries to hold on to these themes in her work, celebrating her culture through food, family, and her values and principles.
Her passion for community shines through her love for group photography walks with Mindful Photo Lab. She has experimented with mixing photography and drawings in her work, and the theme of map-making continues as a way for her to organise her spaces and thoughts on paper.
Shahena hopes this exhibition will successfully convey her ideas and thoughts to the audience through her art.
Artist Bio:
Shahena Begum is a local artist from East London, where she draws inspiration from her surroundings, with a particular love for buildings. Recently, she’s been exploring spaces more deeply, using memories as a way to journal and better understand her identity. Her doodles are her connection to her inner child, allowing her to express herself freely.
Venue: The Chapel, 21 Old Ford Road, E2 9PL
Access: We are working to make our Grade II listed building more accessible but it will take some time. If you require access support (including our portable ramps), please get in touch via comms@stmargaretshouse.org.uk
Dates & Times:
Opening Event: Friday 11th April, 6-8:30pm
Exhibition: Saturday 12th & Sunday 13th April, 10am-4pm
Tickets: FREE (but registration is essential)