Twelve Gates Arts is pleased to present In a world where there five women I am the seventh, an art exhibition by the acclaimed artist Qasim Riza Shaheen. The films, text, and prints inthis show explore the themes of queer mysticism and gender studies through series of self-portraits, poetry, music and dance.

Join us at the opening reception to witness Odissi dancer Shibani Patnaik interpret Qasim Riza Shaheen's art through her dance. She presents an abhinaya or expression piece in an Odissi context, exploring the similarities in expression, mood and setting found in Shaheen's 'Do you take me?' Shibani will also present a piece on Ardhaniswaara, the merging and unique manifestation of the feminine and masculine into one divine force, drawing from Shaheen's art that challenges gender roles and obviates them in the matters of devotion to the beloved.

Qasim Riza Shaheen is an artist based in Manchester, UK.  His work has been programmed widely  including at The National Review of Live Art, Glasgow; Liverpool Biennal; Port City & Beathing Space at Arnolfini in Bristol; Castlefield Gallery in Manchester;Corona Cork Film Festival, Cork; Alhamra National Gallery and Rohtas Gallery in Lahore, Pakistan where he taught and completed an artist residency with the National College of Arts; and Siddhartha Hall at Max Muella Bhavan, Delhi.