"And among His signs is the creation of the heavens and the earth, and the diversity of your languages and your colours. Indeed, in that are

signs for those of knowledge."

Qur'an 30:22

 

This installation, created for the visit of the Aga Khan V to Easter Canada March 2026, honours the cultural traditions, migration journeys, and shared values of the Ismaili community in Canada. Created from over 3,700 traditional textiles contributed by community members (Jamat), and stories of the Jamat's migration, this piece transforms cloth and voice into a collective expression of love, belonging, resilience, and unity. At the heart of the installation are four illuminated columns representing our traditions: South Asian (including those who migrated via Africa), Central Asian, Persian, and Arab, while the fifth represents Canada, interweaving elements from all traditions. At the base of each column, textiles from other traditions appear, reminding us that identity does not exist in isolation. A shared light glows outward, symbolizing the spiritual concept of Nur, and a mirrored floor reflects the columns, inviting reflection on unity within the diversity of the Canadian Jamat. Embroidered flowers created by Jamati artisans represent each tradition, while recorded audio stories allow voices, languages, and lived experiences to accompany the visual work. 

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Lead Artist: Narmin Kassam