University of Salford celebrates the 2024 Muslim Arts Awards

Founded by Salford alumna Qaisra Shahraz MBE, Executive Director of MACFEST, the awards dinner on Sunday 24 November intended to provide Muslim artists from across the North West with the platform to celebrate the diversity of Islamic art and raise the visibility of Muslim artists.

Hosted by actor-comedian Adbdullah Afzal, there were four awards up for grabs as well as a range of performances, including the North West Turkish Folk Dance Group and singers Sajal Chaudhury and Fadi Edel.

Prior to the awards night, Salford had partnered with MACFEST to showcase the 23 artists shortlisted for the awards in an exhibition at the New Adelphi.

There were five victorious winners on the night. Mohamad Aaqib Anvarmia won the drawing category for their piece titled ‘Pinnacle of the Qur’an’, Mahvish Javed won the calligraphy award with 'Ma sha Allah' and Shireen Malik won the photography category with ‘Stillness within the Miners’. The painting category saw two joint winners with Atefeh Seifi’s ‘A Copy of Hafiz’ and Carol Souza’s ‘Melika’.

Sam Ingleson, Associate Dean: Enterprise and Engagement at the University’s School of Arts, Media and Creative Technology said:  'We are proud to partner with MACFEST for the first iteration of the Muslim Arts Awards. It was a privilege to take part in the ceremony and to be able to celebrate the achievements of all the shortlisted artists and acknowledge the five winners.

“The School of Arts, Media and Creative Technology is excited to continue working together and see the awards grow in its reach as we open the call to artists across the UK and hopefully eventually internationally.”

Quaisra Shahraz MBE said: ‘It was thrilling to have the idea become a reality with the Arts Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner. Many congratulations to the amazing winners.

“It was great to host over eighteen Muslim community representatives under one roof. Thank you to our sponsors and marvellous MACFEST team for their contributions.”

Kate Squire, Head of BBC North West said: "This is a joyful event, celebrating the very best of the North West cultural diversity and art. I thoroughly enjoyed taking part and look forward to many more."

MACFEST is a multi-art programme with over 85 live and digital events from February to July each year.

Submissions for next year’s Muslim Arts Awards will open on April 30, 2025.