Join us for a special guided experience of Shangri La through the lens of our 2025 Scholar-in-Residence, Dr. Mariam Rahmani. An acclaimed Iranian American writer, scholar, and translator, Dr. Rahmani brings a deeply thoughtful perspective to her residency at Shangri La, where she is researching her forthcoming novel The House of Mourning—a layered exploration of Islamic art, colonial entanglement, and Indigenous dispossession. 

This intimate tour invites guests to see Shangri La anew, accompanied by Dr. Rahmani and museum staff, culminating in a reflective conversation in the Playhouse. Together, we’ll explore how living artists and scholars help us interpret our collection in meaningful, contemporary ways, highlighting the importance of residencies that center cultural context, critical inquiry, and storytelling as vital curatorial tools. 

Space is limited to 25 guests. Advanced registration required. Parking will be at the Honolulu Museum of Art, shuttle bus will be provided to Shangri La — please refer to the eventbrite link for more information.