In honor of Arab American Heritage Month, the Oakland Public Library is pleased to showcase the vibrant work of Yemeni-American artist Noor Qwfan.
Born in Yemen and raised in California, Noor utilizes digital illustrations to connect with her cultural roots and share them with a broader audience through her social media platforms. Her artwork features everyday Yemeni figures—individuals engaged in dancing, working, and daily life—highlighting the elegance of traditional attire and the richness of the diaspora experience.
When describing this piece, Noor had this to say:
“My work shares different parts of Yemeni and Arab culture, from traditions and dance to food and everyday rituals. It is a way for me to stay connected to a land that feels both deeply familiar and impossibly far, especially in the context of war and distance. Growing up in the West, I took parts of my identity for granted for a long time. This work is about returning to it, honoring it, and allowing myself to fully embrace who I am and where I come from.”
Exhibition Details
This April, we invite you to view Noor’s artwork in person. Her pieces are on display through May 1, 2026, at the Main Library. The exhibit provides an inspiring perspective on the preservation and celebration of Yemeni culture.
- What: The Artwork of Noor Qwfan
- Where: Main Library
- When: April 10 – May 1, 2026
Additional Arab American Heritage Month Events
This exhibition is one of several programs organized by the library to honor Arab American Heritage Month. For more information about upcoming events, including dates, times, and locations, please visit oaklandlibrary.org/events.
We encourage you to experience how Noor’s art reflects the diverse narratives of Yemeni heritage, illustrating that cultural identity is not only rooted in the past but also expressed through the creativity and vitality of the present.
Happy Arab American Heritage Month!
**This exhibition was funded by A Pacific Library Partnership Innovation and Technology Grant**
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