EXTENDED to 28 February.  MONDAY lates till 7.45pm

‘I tend to wear the thobe to Jummah, but if I am coming from work, I just wear whatever clothes I have on for work.’

Sadiq (2024)

The exhibition, consisting of 25 images, is an insightful exploration of the diverse clothing British Muslim men wear during Friday prayers, known as Jummah.

Curated by Dr Fatima Rajina, this exhibition features the work of photographer Rehan Jamil, who has captured what Muslim men attending Jummah at Shoreditch Masjid, East London Mosque, Brick Lane Jamme Mosque and Al Huddah Mosque chose to wear to Jummah. The exhibition showcases a rich array of styles, from traditional garments such as the thobe, funjabi, and shalwar kameez to contemporary attire that reflects the fusion of cultural heritage and city identity. While explicitilty focusing on clothes, the images also pays attention to hairstyles, shoes, trainers and more.

Each photograph is paired with a short narrative that delves into the reasons behind these satorial choices, offering insights into how clothing is a powerful expression of faith, cultural identity and personal style.

The exhibition aims to illluminate the importance of modesty, spirituality and cultural pride that guide these fashion choices while also reflecting the diversity within the British Muslim community.

The project was funded by the British Academy, with support from the Stephen Lawrence Research Centre and Oxford House.

Image courtesy Rehan Jamil & British Journal of Photography