HOBOKEN, NJ.-Asma Ahmed Shikoh, a mixed media visual artist who combines popular icons, cityscapes, and social issues, will have her newest work titled – ‘Liberated,’ on display at The Ceres Gallery, in New York City from January 2 - January 27, 2007. The show ‘Liberated’ is an exciting visual interplay of popular icons and the ‘hijab’ (the head scarf adorned by Muslim women), highlighting the role of individual practices in the shaping of a unique national identity. The work includes personal involvement of more than a hundred Muslim women across America.

“As an artist, my concerns have always been my immediate environment, especially the cities I’ve lived in. ‘Liberated’ juxtaposes my fascination with New York City life and my experience with the self empowering identity of American Muslim women,” says Asma. Asma, who works in oils, acrylics and mixed media, grew up in Pakistan and currently resides in Hoboken, NJ. She graduated in 1999, from the Indus Valley School of Art in Karachi, Pakistan, with a Bachelor in Fine Arts.

Her work in Karachi was during the time when American Fast food had just arrived in Pakistan. ‘Ronald’ from McDonalds and ‘Colonel Sanders’ of Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) became revered icons in the imagery of her artwork- challenging the very vulnerable ideals of nationalism in Pakistan.

Since moving to the United States four years ago, Asma has been showing at group exhibits in the NY/NJ area. Recently, she was part of the show “Fatal Love” at the Queens Museum of Art.

The opening reception of the show ‘Liberated’ is Saturday, January 6th, 2007, 2-4 pm. The show is open for public (no fee) from January 2 -- January 27, 2007 at the Ceres Gallery, 547 West 27th Street, New York, NY 10001. Gallery Hours are Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 12-6. For more information please visit, http://www.asmashikoh.com.