Light of Hope

'Light of Hope' An exhibition of works by Vaseem Mohammed

At St. Botolph’s Aldgate

Sponsored by the MBI Foundation

15 – 29 November 2005

I am delighted to be able to host this exhibition of the works of Vaseem Mohammed in St Botolph's Church. In the light of the 7th July this exhibition, as its name suggests, stands as a beacon of hope for our common future. For years this place has stood at the cross roads of all the major waves of immigration into this country. We values our close links with the local Muslim community, and I hope this exhibition will be a symbol of learning, tolerance and solidarity.

The Rev'd Dr Brian Lee, Rector, St. Botolph’s

When I first approached Rev’d Lee and asked him about the possibility of an exhibition of Vaseem’s work, I felt sure that he would welcome the idea. St. Botolph’s is a church that has always reached out to the community, and since Vaseem grew up within sight of the church, it just seemed a natural place to show his work. I have admired Vaseem’s work for many years, and particularly his use of calligraphy, a traditional facet of Islamic art. But I also like the depth and texture of his paintings, and the layers that peel away to reveal, just as the Quranic verses express a revelation. I find some of his works almost meditative, in the way that the calligraphy forms a rhythm across across the troubled and textured backdrop.

The exhibition is sponsored by the MBI Foundation. At the Foundation, we aim to make and strengthen links between cultures through educational and cultural activities. This exhibition is a very tangible example of mutual appreciation and respect across cultures, and I would like to thank all involved for making it possible.

Carolyn Perry, MBI Foundation