Princess Hijab

Princess Hijab, an apparently atheist 21-year-old street artist, has gained notoriety and some acclaim for "hijabizing" advertisements on the streets of Paris. Via Muslimah Media Watch :

I would say my work is inspired from the anti-consumerist movements. I’m an advertising hijabist. In other words, I cover all advertising with a black veil, which is a dark symbol, a reference on pop culture, and a way to hide elegantly advertising. It is also a study on territories and identities.–Princess Hijab

Princess Hijab (not her real name; she’s remained anonymous) has disappeared as of late; her website, princesshijab.org, appears to be deserted. However, her art raises some interesting questions. If Princess Hijab is doing this out of religious conviction (which seems unlikely, given some of her statements ) or disgust at over-advertising, how does that change how we view her art? Is this a case of religious censorship, feminist outrage, or anti-corporate activism? Or all three?

Disclaimer: This post was written by a Feministing Community user and does not necessarily reflect the views of any Feministing columnist, editor, or executive director.

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