HART257 Islamic Art and Architecture 3 cr.

The creation of the Islamic arts has historically involved multiple factors, physical, conceptual, and social, which have shaped its character and meaning. With this in mind, the course will explore the art and architecture of Islam from its beginnings in seventh century Arabia through the early modern period under the rule of the Ottoman and Mughal dynasties (fifteenth to eighteenth centuries). It will address the role of medium, technique, visual program (how Islamic art is composed, placed and structured, whether on a page or in a building), and the temporal dimension - the impact of movement through time and space on the interpretation, development, and physical character of the Islamic arts. Attention will be given to the relationship of image and text. The agency of artist and patron, spirituality, politics, social identity, reception, display, and cultural exchange will also be primary areas of study. The cultural diversity within the Islamic world, which produced various artistic traditions, will be emphasized.

Prerequisites: HART100

Lecture/Seminar
Culturally Diverse Content
All College Elective