Muslim Journeys Theme: Art And Architecture

Most of us have encountered Islamic art in one form or another. Oriental rugs, the Yaarab Temple and Fox Theater are understood to be “Islamic” in some way. But exactly what makes a work of art “Islamic”?

 

The Muslim Journeys Bookshelf given to the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System includes books about Islamic art as well as films that furnish an introduction to the long history and breadth of the arts in Islam. We invite all of our patrons to visit the Central Library and check out this rich collection of materials!

The Art of Hajj: One of the five “pillars” of Islam is the injunction to make a spiritual pilgrimage to visit the holy places in Mecca – the Hajj – at least once in one’s lifetime. As a companion publication to an art exhibit, this beautifully illustrated book takes the reader on a wonderful journey through arts that celebrate the Hajj. It features illuminated manuscripts, wall paintings and photographs, calligraphy, textiles, scientific instruments, decorative tiles, maps, ceramics, metalwork, and powerful works by contemporary artists, all complemented with explanatory narrative and quotes from the Qur’an and traditional literary sources.

Islamic Arts: Artists and craftsmen in the areas influenced by Islam produced some of the world's most beautiful works of art: from the Alhambra to the Taj Mahal, from illuminated copies of the Koran to exquisite decorative arts: ceramics, textiles and metalwork. This well-illustrated is a great introduction to this vast history.

Islamic Art Spots (DVD): These are visual essays on Calligraphy, Mosques, Travel, Gardens, Textiles, Geometry, and Books, presented in a series of 10-minute explanatory pieces. The Art Spots are written and presented by D. Fairchild Ruggles, Professor at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign.

Islamic Art: Mirror of the Invisible World (DVD): A full-length film tracing the history of Islam in its art and architecture. Narrated by Academy Award winning performer Susan Sarandon, this dazzling documentary reveals the variety and diversity of Islamic art.  It provides a window into Islamic culture and brings broad insights to the enduring themes that have propelled human history and fueled the rise of world civilization over the centuries.