THE SOLA CAMPAIGN - Fundraiser at Ishq Gallery on Broad St

Below info sent to me by the director of ISHQ Gallery

" The SOLA campaign is an international art project by A-Pax (Artists for Peace) that promotes the peaceful teachings of Islam and condemns the brutal and inhumane acts being committed in the name of this faith. The campaign takes its name from the word for “peace” in Pashto, the national language of Afghanistan.

The Qur’an is based on the concepts of morality, love, compassion, mercy, tolerance, and peace. There is a desperate need for Muslims around the world to take a stand against the injustice being done towards humanity in the name of Islam. It is our responsibility to condemn the killing of innocent people and separate ourselves from groups or individuals who commit crimes against humanity.

Through the use of fine art and print media, the SOLA campaign is a visual protest against crimes of terrorism. Banners, posters, and bumper stickers are adorned with the message “Stop the killing! Condemn terrorism and injustice towards humanity!” Next to this, Arabic verses taken directly from the Qur’an, (along with their translations) powerfully affirm that Islam does not condone violence and murder.

The images on the banners depict the deadly craft of terrorist: suicide bombs, car bombs, road side bombs, and other brutal attacks on innocent civilians. Acrylic and ink give shape to these tragic acts of ferocity and remind us daily of the innocent victims who bear the burden of this brutal aggression.

The SOLA campaign strives to encourage people to stand for peace and to openly exhibit their opposition against crimes of cruelty, brutal acts of terror, and injustice towards mankind.


CAMPAIGN FUNDRAISER (A CALL TO ALL MUSLIMS AND SUPPORTERS FOR PEACE)

WHEN: The weekend of the 8th, 9th, and 10th 2010
Event starts at 6pm

WHERE: ISHQ Fine Arts Gallery
209 West Broad Street
Richmond, VA 23220

Director: Mariam Eqbal

There is an effort to raise money for this cause and to take it to the national level in the USA. In order to attain that goal, participation, involvement, and support is needed from all people who are motivated to promote the concepts of non-violence, peace, and maintaining the great reputation of the Islamic faith.

There is a fundraising event taking place the weekend of January 8th, 2010 at ISHQ Fine Arts Gallery, 209 West Broad Street, Richmond, Virginia 23220. The motivation behind the event is to make the campaign public and to call on people of all backgrounds to share and support a common interest. The event allows the public to view all the artwork and develop a better understanding of the efforts involved. It also give the opportunity to people to make personal donations or contributing to the fundraising by purchasing posters, and sticker. I am determined to reach as many people, in as many cities in this nation, so this campaign is the first of many.

HERE is the website that will provide detailed information on the campaign and the people involved.


Thank you all for your help and support.

Sincerely,

Mariam Eqbal "