Statue in Kolenkit neighborhood aims to break down stereotypes about Muslim women

A new statue titled (Zoals) ze is has been unveiled in the Kolenkit neighborhood of Amsterdam-West. The sculpture depicts a Muslim woman using a hammer to break free from a block of marble, symbolizing the struggle against societal stereotypes rather than the limitations of religious identity or gender. Artist Narges Mohammadi collaborated with four local women from diverse backgrounds for over a year to complete the project, which was commissioned as part of the Vrouwen van West art route. The initiative aims to provide greater visibility for women in public spaces, noting that only a small fraction of public art in the city is created by female artists. By portraying a woman who leads an independent, active life, the creators hope to challenge negative media portrayals and highlight the positive, multifaceted experiences of Muslim women in modern society. The project specifically invited participants who had never engaged in professional art creation before.