A gay, practicing Muslim born in apartheid-era South Africa, Igshaan Adams draws on his faith and the multiplicity of his own identity as he produces labor-intensive, woven works that include hanging tapestries, rugs, and standing sculptures. The artist uses wire, cotton twine, rope, plastic, beads, and shells to create abstract, poetic works informed by social, political, and personal narratives. His patterns take inspiration from prayer rugs and the linoleum floors of his native Cape Town. Adams often recruits friends, neighbors, and family members—including his mother, a seamstress—to bring his creations to life. This practice deepens the connections between his pieces and the milieu that inspires them. Adams has been the subject of solo shows at Hayward Gallery and the SCAD Museum of Art. His work has been included in group exhibitions at Pérez Art Museum Miami, the Museum of African Contemporary Art Al Maaden, and the Minneapolis Institute of Art, among other institutions. Adams was featured in The Artsy Vanguard 2020.