Arabesque: The Art of Storytelling
Submission Deadline: March 15, 2025
Exhibition Dates: April 5-April 26, 2025
Opening Reception: April 12, 2025
Venue: Indy’s Global Village Welcome Center
About the Exhibition
As part of this year’s Arab American Heritage Month celebrations, the Indiana chapter of the American Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee in partnership with the Indy’s Global Village is curating a special exhibition celebrating the rich artistic heritage of the Arab world and its diaspora. Arabesque: The Art of Storytelling will reflect the diversity of Arab and Arab American art, past and present. From ancient influences of Middle Eastern and North African cultures to contemporary interpretations, we invite artists to explore themes of identity, tradition, storytelling, and innovation in Arab artistic expression.
Self Portrait. Kahlil Gibran. c. 1911.
Curatorial Statement
Arabesque: The Art of Storytelling is more than an exhibition. It is an act of reclaiming space, voice, and identity. While Arab art has long been admired for its intricate patterns and deep symbolism, the earliest Arab American artists such as Khalil Jubran and Ameen Rihani challenged those artistic conventions. Their stories and those of other Arab American artists have too often been overlooked. This exhibition highlights the immense talent of local Arab American artists, but more importantly, it gives a voice to a community that has historically been spoken for rather than heard.
Through diverse artistic expressions, this exhibition offers a platform for Arab American artists to tell their own stories, in their own way. It is a celebration of heritage, resilience, and self-representation, breaking through stereotypes and revealing the depth of Arab identity through the universal language of art.
Theme & Scope
We welcome works that engage with:
- Traditional & Contemporary Arab Art forms: Calligraphy, Islamic geometric patterns, traditional Arabic textiles, mosaics, etc.
- The Evolution of Arab Storytelling: Visual narratives rooted in poetry, folktales, or historical events.
- Cultural Identity & Migration: Expressions of Arab heritage in a globalized world.
- Sacred & Spiritual Art: Pieces inspired by religious traditions in Arab culture.
- Revolution & Resilience: Art reflecting social change, struggles, and triumphs of Arab communities.
Eligibility & Submission Guidelines
- Open to artists of Arab descent and artists whose work explores Arab art, culture, or history.
- All mediums accepted: Painting, sculpture, photography, textiles, mosaics, digital art installation, and mixed media.
- Artwork must be original and available for display during the exhibition dates.
- Artists may submit up to three pieces for consideration.
How to Submit Artwork to Arabesque
To apply, please use this Google Form.
Questions? Email lead curator Salma Taman, salma.taman@gmail.com.
Your submission email must include high-resolution images, title, medium, dimensions, price, and a brief statement (max 250 words) explaining how the artwork fits within the theme of the show, for each submitted work.
Important Dates
- Submission Deadline: March 15.
- Jury Notification: March 22.
- Exhibition Opening: April 12.
Curator & Jury Panel
This exhibition is curated by Salma Taman and a team of Arab American history and life students.
Join us in honoring the beauty of Arab American art and history. We look forward to your submissions!
