"My soul is from elsewhere, I am sure of that, and I intend to end up there."
-Rumi
 

Dear Reader,

I pray you are well. 
 

I would like to update you on my In Situ Fellowship in Queens Museum in New York. I finished moving everything out of storage, set up my studio, and have been making new works for my Fitra series. I hosted an intimate art salon on Sunday in my studio which was packed with rich conversations and amazing visitors. I'm looking forward to hosting more salons, and to have more expansive conversations. 
 

Nsenga Knight hosting a salon in her studio in Queens Museum

I'm currently focused on working with the Queens Museum World's Fair archives and since settling into my studio, I've visited the archives to get a feel for what I'm most drawn to. After reading the entry on Egypt in the 1939 World’s Fair Limited Edition Americana Encyclopedia I felt inspired to see the Aida Opera at the Metropolitan Opera house.

Nsenga Knight in the Queens Museum’s archives

Fun fact: The Khedive of Egypt, Ismail Pasha commissioned the legendary Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi to compose Aida, a four-act opera in 1870 to celebrate the opening of the Suez Canal.  Aida premiered in December 1871 in Egypt at the Cairo Opera House, in a performance conducted by Giovanni Bottesini. The opera, whose main character is an Ethiopian princess is set in ancient Egypt, and has been a staple in the operatic cannon since its debut.

May 2013 production of Opera Aida, performed at the Cairo Opera House (Photo: Sherif Sonbol)

P.S. I will be hosting another salon at my studio next week inshaAllah. Let me know if you'd like to receive an invitation to attend by replying to this email.

The Fitra: Amber series is available on Artfare's website. Check it out, share it with friends, and let me know what you think!

With Peace,

Nsenga Knight