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Art Jameel and the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) have revealed the shortlisted projects for the 7th edition of the Jameel Prize, the international award celebrating contemporary art and design inspired by Islamic tradition. This year, the triennial competition, worth £25,000, focuses on moving image and digital media, with seven finalists selected from over 300 applicants.

The shortlisted artists for the 'Jameel Prize: Moving Images' are: Sadik Kwaish Alfraji, Jawa El Khash, Alia Farid, Zahra Malkani, Khandakar Ohida, Marrim Akashi Sani, and a joint submission by Ramin Haerizadeh, Rokni Haerizadeh, and Hesam Rahmanian. Their works explore themes ranging from domesticity and spirituality to ecology and revolution, reflecting the relevance of Islamic heritage in contemporary life.

The finalists were chosen through an open call in 2023, seeking artists working with film, video, and time-based media, as well as those engaging with both established and emerging digital technologies. The international jury for the 7th edition includes artists Morehshin Allahyari and Ajlan Gharem (winner of the previous Jameel Prize ‘Poetry to Politics’), curator Sadia Shirazi, and academic Laura U. Marks, chaired by V&A Director Tristram Hunt.

The winner will be announced on November 27, 2024, followed by an exhibition of all finalists' works at the V&A, opening on November 30, 2024. The 'Jameel Prize: Moving Images' exhibition will then tour nationally and internationally in 2025, including a stop at Hayy Jameel in Jeddah.

The finalists' works span film, sculpture, installation, sound, performance, and VR, addressing issues such as water, ecology, landscape, and spirituality. They examine the impact of extractive industries and political dynamics on the environment and society in the Middle East and South Asia. Other works delve into the writing of history, monument-making, and iconoclasm, forging alternative approaches to museums and collections. Personal narratives of community, resilience, and connection are also prominent, with powerful storytelling through hand-drawn animation and photography.

Tristram Hunt, V&A Director and chair of the Jameel Prize jury, stated, "I am delighted that we have selected such an impressive shortlist for the seventh Jameel Prize. Over the last 15 years, the Prize has explored diverse responses to Islamic civilization in many media. This edition's focus on digital media and the moving image reflects the expanding and diversifying range of eligible work. The V&A is thrilled to continue its partnership with Art Jameel in creating a bold and intriguing exhibition."

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