The first-ever Muslim Arts Awards Gala Dinner, organised by the award-winning Muslim Arts and Culture Festival (MACFEST), took place at Manchester Hall on November 24. The event gathered artists, community organisations, sponsors, judges, and dignitaries to celebrate the exceptional talent and creativity of Muslim artists.
Qaisra Shahraz MBE, the driving force behind the new Arts Award programme and Executive Director of MACFEST, expressed her excitement.
“It was thrilling to see the idea become a reality with the Arts Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner. Congratulations to the amazing winners. Hosted in the beautiful Manchester Hall—what a fantastic, inspirational evening. It was a great celebration of Muslim artists. It was wonderful to host over eighteen Muslim communities’ representatives under one roof. Thank you to our sponsors and the marvellous MACFEST team for their contributions,” she said.
The awards celebrated outstanding talent across five categories. Mohamad Aaqib Anvarmia won for Pinnacle of the Qur’an in Drawing. Mahvish Javed was recognised for Ma Sha Allah in Calligraphy. Shireen Malik was honoured for Stillness within the Miners in Photography. In Painting, Atefeh Seifi’s A Copy of Hafiz and Carol Souza’s Melika shared the top prize as joint winners.
Kate Squire, Head of BBC North West, described the event as “a joyful celebration of the very best of the North West’s cultural diversity and art.” She added that she “thoroughly enjoyed taking part and looks forward to many more.”
Ahead of the awards, MACFEST partnered with the University of Salford’s School of Arts, Media, and Creative Technology to showcase the work of 23 shortlisted Muslim artists. The exhibition, held on November 14, highlighted the incredible range of Islamic art and celebrated Muslim artists’ talent.
Sam Ingleson, Associate Dean at the University of Salford, reflected on the collaboration, “We’re so proud to partner with MACFEST for the first Muslim Arts Awards. It was a privilege to celebrate the shortlisted artists, acknowledge the winners, and be part of such an inspiring event. We’re excited to see the awards grow and hope they’ll eventually attract artists from around the world.”
Actor and comedian Abdullah Afzal hosted the gala, keeping the atmosphere lively. Performances by the North West Turkish Folk Dance Group, singer Sajal Chaudhury, and Syrian vocalist Fadi Edel added a vibrant touch. Guests also enjoyed mint tea, black coffee, and cultural heritage displays alongside art exhibitions.
Photo: Winners of the 2024 MACFEST Art Awards (courtesy of MACFEST)
