See Islamic Art at Muslim Community Association
By Carolyn Schuk
Question: What's the best-known example of Islamic art and architecture in the world?
If you answered the Taj Mahal in India, you're right. If you didn't, think about joining the Muslim Community Association on Sunday May 11 for a presentation on Islamic art and architecture.
A continuous tradition reaching back to the 7th century, Islamic art draws on many sources -- Roman, Early Christian, Byzantine, pre-Islamic Persian, Central Asian and Chinese. It isn't art that pertains to religion in the same way that "Christian art" refers to art works with specifically Christian themes.
Instead, Islamic art is characterized by its use of a specific artistic "vocabulary" of complex and interconnected geometric, arabesque, floral, and calligraphic forms – all of which ultimately reflect the eternal unity, balance and beauty of God and all creation.
"Art is something that appeals to everyone regardless of religious background," explains Dian Alyan, MCA Outreach Director. "We will have a display of Islamic art, an ancient Quran, presentations from an architect and a calligrapher, pictures of mosques from around the world and, of course, baklava and other sweet treats."
Islamic Art and Architecture will be presented Sunday, May 11 at 2 p.m. at the MCA on 3003 Scott Blvd. in Santa Clara. The event is free and open to the public, but if you RSVP Dian Alyan at (408) 727-7277 ext. 402, you will receive your name in Arabic calligraphy.
The MCA also offers monthly Inside Islam presentations. For schedules and information, call Dian Alyan.
Carolyn Schuk can be reached at cschuk@earthlink.net.
