Ablutions is a two-channel, 3-minute video installation, with sound that loops. The two channels incorporate similar scale projections. On the first channel, I am performing the Islamic Wudu -the intention to purify one’s self before prayer -with blue water. On the second channel, I am frantically taking the blue off my skin. The video includes closely cropped shots of performing Wudu. I also recite my intention of performing ablution to cleanse and purify myself while washing my face. I rinse my hands, mouth, nose, face, arms, hair and feet systematically, in accordance to the right way of

performing ablution. On the other channel, the same body parts covered in blue are synced as they are being cleansed with clear water. The viewer occupies the space between these two videos as she watches the two back and forth. Wudu is a cleansing ritual performed five times a day in an attempt at cleaning ones self before praying to God. Cleansing is given a lot of importance in Islam and is considered half of faith. However, the religious quote refers to not the cleaning of body only, but also the soul. I perform Wudu with blue water in an attempt to clean myself. I use it as an action that might appear to be of cleansing but isn’t when only a mindless ritual. I am commenting on religious rituals becoming part of the body without much thought gone into them. I am also questioning their function within my own life. Blue is a color that is ideal but cannot be integrated within real space and real circumstances. It is something that appears pure from a distance, but when used in a real setting it may even tint the skin and leave a residue doing the opposite of what it is supposed to do. I am inquiring into the notion of purification through the act of physical washing. Does Wudu purify necessarily? Does Wudu purify me? Does ritualistic activity lack intention of the soul? There is a general idea amongst followers of all religions that if ritualistic activities are executed the right way, it makes them better Muslims/Christians/Hindus. A ritual demonstrates disconnection of soul and body, in which the body is in an unconscious state. Blue becomes a color for self-indulgence and impurity in this video, unlike some of my previous works in which blue is considered an ideal and perfect color for water. Blue transcends from a color for magic into a color for fake and impure in my work and perception.

In this work, I also bring the ritual of washing, out of the private environment for public viewing. Muslim females perform their ritualistic practices at home, behind closed doors. Performing this action publicly not only makes a private action of a Muslim female public, but also brings religion; a very private matter in America out for public viewing and discussion.