An attempt to define Islamic Art
One of the hardest things for Muslims do to is define Islamic Art, with the changing and growth of modern Islamic art, there may be a need to re-define Islamic art. Here is an attempt to decipher what is Islamic Art and the difference between Islamic and Muslim art. We have to be carefull as to what is the difference between these two, as not all 'Muslim' art is Islamic. Islamic Art in general is - all or any sort of art that does not contradict Islamic guidelines as set by the fuqaha. This can vary between opinions. A 'Muslim' does not nescessarily make the art 'Islamic'. I define Islamic art by the following, it is strictly my opinion*:
1. ISLAMIC ART
Art created either by Muslims or Non-Muslims.
1.1
Art that is contextually and obviously Islamic.
Example: traditional Arabic calligraphy, architecture and arabesque work. Art that is clearly relating to the Qur’an, Allah, Islam, the Prophet etc.
1.2
Modern Islamic art, that is wider in medium and content, but made to be considered Islamic art (context, meaning, subject matter is intended to be Islamic by the artist).
Example: photography of Peter Sanders
1.3
Art that was not intended to be Islamic by the artist, but has no obvious un-Islamic context or elements.
Example: generic landscape paintings of Monet
2. MUSLIM ART
Art that is created by Muslims
2.1
Art that is traditionally Islamic
Example: traditional Arabic calligraphy, architecture and arabesque work
2.2
Art that is Islamic in context (art that does not contradict Islam, nor is un-Islamic) - but the subject matter/context cannot be determined to be directly 'Islamic'.
2.3
Muslim Art that is not defined by religious guidelines at all (free).
2.4
Muslim Art that is clearly un-Islamic.
*This is open for discussion and change.
Wa Allahu A'lam
Ruh, Visual Dhikr
This entry was posted
on
Tuesday, December 26, 2006 at 5:37 PM.
You can skip to the end and leave a response.
