The curation celebrates themes of immigrant narratives as well as reflections of faith in a modern society.

By Shofa Miah

The Royal Docks have invited world-renowned street-artist Mohammed Ali MBE to bring his art installation Nomad to the Factory Project in the Docklands for February. He is known for creating art that celebrates themes of immigrant narratives as well as reflections of faith in a modern society.

Mohammed has painted murals, created installations, and delivered live performances in New York, Johannesburg, and other major cities. He and his team at Soul City Arts – an arts organisation he founded – have created an immersive experience he
describes as a ‘nomadic reflection booth’ for the public to step inside, to write and record cherished thoughts and prayers.

Mohammed said: “We have created this intimate tent structure and brought it into a London warehouse for a weekend. It is a space for refuge and an escape from the daily grind. People’s prayers are a very personal and sacred thing, but we bring them into a very visual and public form, providing a fascinating insight into the minds of our communities. When do we ever see what others pray for? Is it a taboo to even ask such a thing?”

During Nomad reflections are not just to be written but there is also an option to speak to camera for those who wish to contribute towards the gathering of recorded prayers.

Upon entering a calming and peaceful space within the tent, people are greeted by a host dressed in traditional Bedouin garments who guides participants through a series of thought-provoking questions about ‘faith’.

Those recordings will be edited and shared on-the-fly through visual projections around the space. The installation comes to Docklands and London for the first time with Newham residents able to enjoy a unique opportunity to share their prayers and hopes, as well as to see the intimate prayers of others.

The Nomad tent is on display at the Factory Project on:

Saturday 24 February between 1-6pm
Sunday 25 February between 12-5pm

www.soulcityarts.com/nomad

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