Donor Update January 2025

Dear Supporters,

We are thrilled to share the latest updates on the impactful initiatives you have helped bring to life through your generous contributions. Here’s a look at the progress and achievements over the past three months:
 
1. Sikhlens 2024 Art Calendar Release
The Sikhlens 2024 Art Calendar, featuring stunning artifacts from the Sikh Virtual Museum, was officially released at the Sikhlens Film Festival (November 21-24, 2024) and again during Darbar-E-Khalsa (December 25, 2024). This calendar showcases Sikh heritage, blending art and history in a meaningful way.

• The calendar was also featured at the Sikhlens Seattle Festival, drawing attention from attendees across the globe.
• Thanks to the efforts of the Sikhlens Global Team, the calendar has been distributed worldwide, spreading the beauty of Sikh heritage far and wide.

Your support has enabled us to preserve and share Sikh culture with an international audience, ensuring our stories continue to inspire.
 
2. Sikhlens Publications Grant: “Slaves of Fashion” by The Singh Twins
We are proud to announce the worldwide release of “Slaves of Fashion: Art of The Singh Twins - Personal Reflections on Hidden Stories of Empire, Colonialism, and Their Legacies”, created with a grant from Sikhlens Publications.

This new book, published by Manchester University Press, showcases the internationally acclaimed artwork of The Singh Twins, British artist sisters of Indian origin, whose award-winning work has redefined perceptions of heritage and identity in contemporary art. Their accolades include being Honorary Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) and recipients of several Honorary Doctorates. They have featured prominently in exhibitions worldwide, and their contributions to art have been recognized as representing the artistic face of modern Britain.

The Slaves of Fashion book explores themes of empire, colonialism, and their legacies, centered around the global history of Indian textiles and trade. The artworks delve into stories of conflict, exploitation, slavery, cultural exchange, and changing fashion, framed by the historical backdrop of European imperial powers. The accompanying commentaries address topical issues like racism, cultural ownership, ethical trade, and decolonization.

• The book highlights significant moments in Sikh history, emphasizing its relevance to the broader narrative of empire and colonialism.
• It will be prominently displayed at the NASMDA Conference (January 17-19, 2025) and the Sikhlens Chandigarh Film Festival (February 22, 2025).
• Pre-orders are now available, with the official launch set for February 2025.

Your contributions have allowed us to support this extraordinary project, which not only celebrates Sikh heritage but also connects diverse global audiences through art and history.
 
3. Sikhlens 2026 Calendar Project with The Singh Twins
Looking ahead, we are excited to announce the Sikhlens 2026 Art Calendar Project, a collaboration with The Singh Twins, who will also be keynote speakers at the Sikhlens Film Festival (November 20-23, 2025).

• For over 25 years, the Sikhlens Art Calendar has been our flagship project, offering a platform for artists worldwide.
• Distributed globally to museums, heritage sites, and as gifts by the Sikh diaspora, the calendar continues to bridge communities and celebrate Sikh heritage through art.

This collaboration promises to elevate the project further, blending the Singh Twins’ unique artistic vision with our mission to preserve and share Sikh culture.

Looking Ahead
Your support has made these milestones possible, and we are just getting started! Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to promote Sikh heritage, art, and stories worldwide. Together, we are creating a legacy of inspiration and pride for future generations.

With gratitude,

The Sikhlens Team