Reimagining Narratives

in Islamic Thought through Human-Centered Design

Seldon Institute is a collaborative space for ideas and educational initiatives that cultivate a practical understanding of Islam.

We provide a platform for thinkers, leaders, entrepreneurs, and artists to engage their work with new audiences within expert and public communities to facilitate a more relevant and nuanced understanding of Islam.

Our Work

Innovative Research
Intellectual & Artistic Exchange
Curated Experiences
Human-Centered Design

We utilize an incubator model which harnesses our collective ideas, expertise, resources, and authentic experiences and expressions to design educational initiatives on Islam that center the human experience.

We bridge the gaps between…

the Academy & the Public

Arabic & English Translations

Academic & Religious Scholarship

Traditional Approaches & Lived Experiences

Artists & the Public

Knowledge & Action

How we do it…

Support new directions in Islamic studies through research and translation projects

Create platforms for knowledge exchange on Islamic thought
Highlight academic research that informs a practical understanding of Islam
Explore the role of art in communicating ideas

ideas

initiatives

Sponsor pilot projects that utilize an experiential and collaborative approach
Design spaces that inspire contemplation

Facilitate authentic conversations between diverse communities
Develop programs for ethical and creative leadership and organizational capacity building

Our research examines historical and existing narratives to understand…

What they are? How they developed? Which evidence supports them? And what they do for shaping identity, promoting understanding, and impacting our day-to-day experiences?

Current Pilot Projects

Mapping Hyde Park

Collaborative programs building authentic communities through educational, cultural, and religious institutions
The Experience of Inner Peace

A series of programs designed to explore the experience of intentionality in our daily lives
Student Leadership Program

A series of workshops designed to engage college and high school students in practical leadership skills
Seldon Forum

Roundtable discussions on Islam and Muslims featuring scholars, activists, artists, and writers
SeldonTalks

Interviews highlighting the personal stories behind the work of thought leaders and artists
Residency Programs

Immersive Chicago residency programs for scholars, creative writers, entrepreneurs, and artists
Muslim Life

Designing spaces and programs that meet the authentic needs of the Muslim community
Traditional Islamic Arts Studio

Immersive workshops and courses on Arabic Calligraphy and the Islamic Art of Illumination.
Contemplative Garden Project

Garden design and experiences that invite introspection