Designer's Creed
Context
My research explored a critical gap in the world of graphic design—how Muslim women are represented and included within the industry. While gender, ethnicity, and class have been widely discussed in design discourse, religion remains an underrepresented dimension. Through this study, I examine the question: How are Muslim women portrayed in graphic design, and what role do Muslim female designers play in shaping these depictions?
The discussion delves into the visual representation of Muslim women across advertisements, campaigns, and illustrations, while also interrogating the experiences and voices of Muslimah graphic designers like Shezil Malik and Deena Mohammed. Their work not only speaks to the collective experiences of Muslim women but also provides a platform for nuanced self-representation.
By addressing the absence of Muslim women in the commercial design industry, this research advocates for a more inclusive approach, ultimately urging the industry to recognise and embrace the intersection of gender, religion, and creativity.
ART DIRECTION
This project was heavily inspired by Islamic and Arabic art, and I infused elements of calligraphy and design aesthetics into the layout of my paper to visually reflect the cultural and religious identity central to the topic.
