The Agony of Misconception II
The Agony of Misconception is a photographic essay focused on perceptions of the Muslim community that have been conveyed by various media and are rooted in the social and political issues that are prevalent in the Middle East. Young Muslim residents of Utah were invited into the studio to be photographed. While I had them in the studio, I also asked them about any racism they had experienced because of their clothing or headscarf. As a foreigner in the U.S., I have a deep understanding of the pain experienced by Muslims in the face of disrespect and discrimination. Traditional and distinct styles of dress including robes, veils, and headdresses are seen as a key concept to Middle Eastern and Islamic beliefs; the patterns and colors vary from country to country. The fabrics and the different ways they are folded reveal the respect that these people have for their culture and religion. Their experiences inspired me to create this series in order to help others understand the cultures from which these people come.

The Keffiyeh
Digital Print, 2017 © Martha Diaz Adam

Thawb Felesteeni
Digital Print, 2017 © Martha Diaz Adam

The Shemagh
Digital Print, 2017 © Martha Diaz Adam