Shirley Fiterman Art Center hosts group exhibition inspired by 12th-century Sufi poem 'The Conference of The Birds'

A sprawling group exhibition titled 'The Conference of The Birds' opened at the Shirley Fiterman Art Center, drawing inspiration from the 12th-century Sufi masterpiece of the same name. The original poem by Attar of Nishapur follows thirty birds on a quest to persuade the mythical phoenix-like Simorgh to become their king. Upon reaching Simorgh's purported habitat, the pilgrims discover only a deserted lake where they see their own reflections. Attar employed a pun between 'Simorgh' and the Persian word for 'thirty,' with each bird representing a human obstacle to enlightenment. Curator Brenda Zlamany included an extra half dozen artists beyond the thematic framework, resulting in a stunning array of ornithological variations. The exhibition features works by multiple contemporary artists exploring these allegorical themes through diverse media. The show presents visual interpretations of the poem's spiritual journey and metaphorical obstacles. It transforms the gallery space into a contemporary reflection on ancient Sufi wisdom and collective aspiration.