Presented by the Aga Khan University’s Institute for the Study of Muslim Civilisations (AKU- ISMC) and the Aga Khan Centre Gallery, this exhibition explores the relationship between football and religion and how the two are often connected, with players praying on the pitch and fans observing religious rituals in tandem. The wider narrative across the exhibition examines football’s ability to champion social causes, promote marginalised voices, and create opportunities for inclusion and diversity in ways no other sport can.
Originally shown at the Aga Khan Centre in London, 2022, this iteration of the exhibiton brings a connection to the Portugese game. The exhibition includes interviews with two Portugese football professionals João Pereira, coach of Sporting Clube de Portugal Under 23, and Rahim Ahamad, fan and member of Sporting Clube de Portugal, who share their personal stories and relationship between football and religion.
The exhibition provides a narrative on the subject through a snapshot of social history and contemporary commentary with a selection of books, magazines and newspaper articles, relevant objects, and artefacts. This narrative provides the contextual backdrop for a series of new artworks created by visual artist, illustrator, and animator Ed Merlin Murray.
The exhibition is by no means a formal statement on the confluence of football and religion but a glimpse into the subject through a series of stories, ideas and experiences from individuals and organisations connected with both the world of sport and that of the spirit. The exhibition touches upon the diversity of the subject and how these worlds are becoming increasingly interwoven as awareness grows of the cultural and religious needs of players and of others involved in the game. And indeed, how social attitudes and ideas are evolving as a result.
The exhibition, Football and Religion, includes something for everyone — from eye-catching immersive illustrated animations to interactive art and a host of inspirational media that allow visitors to delve into the subject as much as they wish.
We encourage the whole Jamat to invite their friends and family to visit the exhibition together and learn more about this topic. The exhibition is available in the Exhibition Hall until 12 of October! We're counting on your presence!
