Ikon Gallery
British artist Mahtab Hussain explores the fine line between photographic documentation and surveillance culture, intervening in the intelligence sites established by the media and the state to monitor the Muslim community in Britain.
Commissioned by Ikon and Photoworks, the exhibition features new work, including Hussain’s systematic documentation of 160 Birmingham mosques, revealing the diversity of mosque architecture; portraits of Birmingham residents which highlight the city’s vibrant Muslim community through fashion identity; a communal space within the gallery aimed at fostering inclusion and intercultural dialogue; and the artist’s installation What Did You Want To See? which simulates a space under surveillance.
About Ikon
Ikon is an internationally acclaimed contemporary art gallery, situated in Birmingham’s city centre. Established in 1964 by a group of artists, Ikon celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2024. It is an educational charity with free entry for all, and works to encourage public engagement with contemporary art through exhibiting new work in a context of debate and participation. The gallery programme features artists from around the world and a variety of media is represented, including sound, film, mixed media, photography, painting, sculpture and installation. Ikon’s off-site programme develops dynamic relationships between art, artists and audiences outside the gallery. Projects vary enormously in scale, duration and location, challenging expectations of where art can be seen and by whom. Education is at the heart of Ikon’s activities, stimulating public interest in and understanding of contemporary visual art. Ikon aims to build dynamic relationships with audiences, enabling visitors to engage with, discuss and reflect on contemporary art.
Ikon is open Tuesday – Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays, 11am-5pm. Free entry, donations welcome. Ikon is supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England, and Birmingham City Council.
