Civilising Attempts in Art and Islam: Muslim Artistic Performance Facing Social Orders in the UK

Drawing on a multidisciplinary framework that combines cultural studies, sociology, and religious studies, the study investigates how Muslim artists integrate their artistic endeavours with educational and spiritual goals, coining the term ‘edutainment’. It explores the tension between various authoritative voices in Islam regarding the permissibility of art and music and delves into the influences of Salafi Islam on artistic expression. Additionally, the study examines how state policies in response to the attacks have impacted the field of Muslim performing artists and their engagement with civilizing efforts. Through qualitative research methods, including interviews, participant observation, and online surveys, the study dissects the strategies and motivations of Muslim artists. It identifies attempts to transform cultural tastes and behaviours as contemporary civilizing endeavours by high-profile Muslim artists. These efforts aim to challenge societal norms, bridge cultural divides, and empower marginalized Muslim communities, often drawing inspiration from prominent convert Muslim scholars and teachers. The study concludes by highlighting the ways in which the deliberate civilizing attempts of Muslim performing artists contribute to the development and transformation of Muslim communities in the West. It identifies both formalized and informalized civilizing processes and underscores the role of cultural elites in shaping values and behaviours. Moreover, the study emphasizes the transnational influences that flow from US-based Muslim artists to the UK. It calls for further research to explore the potential long-term effects of these civilizing processes within larger societal transformations.