About

More Than Decor — The Story Behind Modern Wall Art

Modern Wall Art began in 2014 when Syed Rahman also known as Saif and his father noticed a gap in the market: while homes were filled with traditional paintings and canvases, there was little to no modern Islamic art that truly resonated with contemporary interiors.

So, from the basement of their Chicago home, they began handcrafting something different 3D Islamic art made from stainless steel, chosen for its strength and sleek, modern appeal. What started as a hobby quickly evolved into a business. But growth didn’t come easy.

In those early days, every piece was made by hand, one at a time, with no reliable source for mass production. Turning their passion into a scalable business required patience, persistence, and faith.

Over the years, Modern Wall Art evolved not just as a brand, but as a force for good.

Today, it’s much more than a company that decorates homes. It’s a movement that’s changing lives. Through its sister organization, MWA Charity, Modern Wall Art has helped raise over $6 million for underserved communities across Africa, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Palestine. building wells, homes, and hope.

“We’re proud that when someone hangs one of our pieces in their home, they’re not just adding beauty to their walls ,they’re becoming part of something greater,” says Syed. “They’re joining a community that gives back.”

The vision for Modern Wall Art is simple but powerful: to be in every home, as a symbol of faith, style, and compassion.

Meet Modern Wall Art®️ Founder Syed Rahman


Syed Rahman, also known as Saif, started Modern Wall Art®️ in 2014 with his father, working out of their basement in Chicago. What began as a passion project has now become a leading name in 3D Islamic decor. They started with a simple Etsy and eBay page, followed by launching their own website. In 2016, they opened a small studio in Skokie, Illinois. Two years later, they opened their first gallery, and by 2020, they had expanded to a larger location in Bridgeview.

What inspired the idea? 
It started while remodeling my own home. I searched everywhere for Islamic art that matched a modern aesthetic, but couldn’t find anything. So I created something myself. The art I made for my home caught everyone’s attention. That’s when I realized this could be more than a personal project.

Proud Moments
Opening America’s first Islamic art gallery in Skokie was a milestone. But having my Ayat Al Kursi design displayed at the Chicago History Museum is something I’ll never forget.

The Role Model Behind the Vision
My dad, Syed Abdul Quyoum, has always been my role model. His words stick with me: “No matter how hard times get, we haven’t done wrong to anyone, so Allah won’t do wrong to us.”

What I Want You to Know
We believe in barakah. Even though machines could make our work faster, we choose to keep it handmade for most part. Every piece is crafted from scratch, not just to preserve skill and quality, but to create jobs and bring more blessings into the process.

Why We Do This
For us, it’s never been just about money. We chase barakah. Modern Wall Art has helped raise over six million dollars in charity, supporting communities across Africa, Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, and Palestine. We’re here to build more than beautiful spaces. We’re here to change lives.