Islam and Peace Art Workshop with my MEST 329 Islamic Art and Architecture at the American University in Dubai, April 2017.
Showing posts with label Islamic Arts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Islamic Arts. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 5, 2017
Wednesday, November 30, 2016
Peace Art in Dubai with my students - Fall 2016
Peace Art in Dubai - Fall 2016 with my students at the American University in Dubai.
When visual arts tell the stories of peace makers.
When visual arts tell the stories of peace makers.
Wednesday, June 1, 2016
Salah: A Journey of Spiritual Elevation
Rana Abd El Moti Mohamed
Description of Installation:
Description of Installation:
Many of us spend our lifetime in search of a path that will lead us to inner peace, a quest that is highly emphasized in the teachings of Islam. The struggle to attain ultimate peace lies in the complex nature of man, created of both physical and non physical qualities, as described in Islam one can only achieve true inner peace once they are able to fulfill both their forms. Allow me to invite you to experience, first hand an installation that inter-operates the experience of Prayer Salah (meaning to connect in Arabic) as described and symbolized in the Sunnah and Hadith of the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH). Through the filming of nature, the core symbolic imagery described in the Hadith, the visuals have then been altered to reflect an alternate reality, to bring alive another layer of stunning predominant Islamic art form, which is the use of abstract and geometric art. I have chosen to alter the imagery to reflect this unique and intricate form of art that is recognised by Islamic artists to free the mind of the forms of the physical world, allowing one to contemplate on the metaphysical realities that are described in Islam, ultimately elevating one’s spiritual conscious. Please step on the mat, to embark on a journey of great peace and beauty. This is the spiritual journey of Salah.
Why prayer in Islam?
Prayer is a journey all on its own, from the moment the Adan prayer call is made, which under it all Muslim people are unified regardless of their age, gender, social class, or nationality. All are requested to answer to their Lord. To begin the prayer one must go through the process of both physical and spiritual cleansing, as they preform Prayer is a journey all on its own, from the moment the Adan prayer call is made. After one is cleaned the worshipers gather side by side, shoulder to shoulder, united, all facing the same direction, with the words Allah Akbar (God is Great), recited once more to begin the prayer, just as it started the Call dropping the titles of every man, and pulling them out of the physical world, to stand in between the Divine hands of their creator.
Prayer is a journey all on its own, from the moment the Adan prayer call is made, which under it all Muslim people are unified regardless of their age, gender, social class, or nationality. All are requested to answer to their Lord. To begin the prayer one must go through the process of both physical and spiritual cleansing, as they preform Prayer is a journey all on its own, from the moment the Adan prayer call is made. After one is cleaned the worshipers gather side by side, shoulder to shoulder, united, all facing the same direction, with the words Allah Akbar (God is Great), recited once more to begin the prayer, just as it started the Call dropping the titles of every man, and pulling them out of the physical world, to stand in between the Divine hands of their creator.
Peace in Prayer?
Nevertheless, peace in prayer does not only lie in the physical or observable qualities that can be comprehended by the human mind instead, it lies in what the mind cannot comprehend or witness, and that is secret journey that one embarks on, as they preform this act of worship. A secret journey that can only be revealed through the Sunnah and Hadith of the Prophet (PBUH). In the Hadith imagery and symbolism are used to describe this experience, using elements of nature which are of great purity and beauty, furthermore, these elements that according to the teachings of Islam await mankind in Paradise in its most extravagant forms. Depicting the act of prayer as a journey that one makes several times a day to Paradise, in their fully conscious state. As the description of prayer is strongly connected with that of nature, one should being to feel a greater sense of unity and harmony with the universe as a whole.
Nevertheless, peace in prayer does not only lie in the physical or observable qualities that can be comprehended by the human mind instead, it lies in what the mind cannot comprehend or witness, and that is secret journey that one embarks on, as they preform this act of worship. A secret journey that can only be revealed through the Sunnah and Hadith of the Prophet (PBUH). In the Hadith imagery and symbolism are used to describe this experience, using elements of nature which are of great purity and beauty, furthermore, these elements that according to the teachings of Islam await mankind in Paradise in its most extravagant forms. Depicting the act of prayer as a journey that one makes several times a day to Paradise, in their fully conscious state. As the description of prayer is strongly connected with that of nature, one should being to feel a greater sense of unity and harmony with the universe as a whole.
How does this Art Form represent the concept?
I had first intended to put together a short a film with the actual visual imagery that I had captured that was derived from the Hadith (using river, trees and mountains), but as I began putting the film together, I lacked any sense of elevation or spiritual awakening with in me, thinking to myself here I am representing a journey that is hard for the human mind to comprehend yet, I am using visuals that are fairly common to see and understand. I wanted to capture the eyes of the people, and elevate their spirits, freeing their mind of the physical world, and allowing them to create their own interpretations of the metaphysical reality that is still guarded by the core representations of Hadith. Struggling, I turned to our class material for answers, only to be reminded of the image of Kabaa and the pilgrims engaged in prayer. Only to grasp that through prayer amazingly patterns, shapes and symmetry are created, so why not incorporate this element into the film! Using the foundation of Geometric and Arabesque art that we have been introduced to in class, I have altered the imagery to represent the shapes that symbolize Islamic concepts, like the Octagon=Paradise, Circle=God, Square= connection between earth and heaven. To elaborate on the harmony and the infinite patterns the shapes create, representing the nature of Divine God. Despite how beautiful the descriptions of Prayer may be to the Muslim, the experience of standing in front of the the all Mighty is not intended to be easy and therefore, I wanted to translate the essence of fear, as we wander together in an alternate reality.
I had first intended to put together a short a film with the actual visual imagery that I had captured that was derived from the Hadith (using river, trees and mountains), but as I began putting the film together, I lacked any sense of elevation or spiritual awakening with in me, thinking to myself here I am representing a journey that is hard for the human mind to comprehend yet, I am using visuals that are fairly common to see and understand. I wanted to capture the eyes of the people, and elevate their spirits, freeing their mind of the physical world, and allowing them to create their own interpretations of the metaphysical reality that is still guarded by the core representations of Hadith. Struggling, I turned to our class material for answers, only to be reminded of the image of Kabaa and the pilgrims engaged in prayer. Only to grasp that through prayer amazingly patterns, shapes and symmetry are created, so why not incorporate this element into the film! Using the foundation of Geometric and Arabesque art that we have been introduced to in class, I have altered the imagery to represent the shapes that symbolize Islamic concepts, like the Octagon=Paradise, Circle=God, Square= connection between earth and heaven. To elaborate on the harmony and the infinite patterns the shapes create, representing the nature of Divine God. Despite how beautiful the descriptions of Prayer may be to the Muslim, the experience of standing in front of the the all Mighty is not intended to be easy and therefore, I wanted to translate the essence of fear, as we wander together in an alternate reality.
Hadith
Nature Element:
1. Flowing Water
In the hadith narrated of the authority of Abd Huraira the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) is reported to have said. while in the hadith narrated by Bakr (the words are like this) : He heard the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) as saying: just see, can anything of his filthiness remain (on the body of) any one of you if there were a river at his door in which he washed himself five times daily? They, said: Nothing of his filthiness will remain (on his body). He said: That is like the five prayers by which Allah obliterates sins. or Jabir b. 'Abdullah reported that the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) said: The similitude of five prayers is like an overflowing river passing by the gate of one of you in which he washes five times daily Hasan said: No filthiness can remain on him.
2. The Tree
Also used as a reference to prayer. I visited the Prophet during his ailments and he was suffering from a high fever. I said, "You have a high fever. Is it because you will have a double reward for it?" He said, "Yes, for no Muslim is afflicted with any harm but that Allah will remove his sins as the leaves of a tree fall down.”
3. The Mountains
Described symbolically with the form of a mountain in other versions of the Hadith “When the worshiper stands up in prayer, all his sins are brought and placed upon his head and shoulders, so whenever he bows and prostrates, they fall from him." [Bahyaqi, Tabaraani, authenticated by Al-AlBaanee]
----------------------------------------------------------
Nature Element:
1. Flowing Water
In the hadith narrated of the authority of Abd Huraira the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) is reported to have said. while in the hadith narrated by Bakr (the words are like this) : He heard the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) as saying: just see, can anything of his filthiness remain (on the body of) any one of you if there were a river at his door in which he washed himself five times daily? They, said: Nothing of his filthiness will remain (on his body). He said: That is like the five prayers by which Allah obliterates sins. or Jabir b. 'Abdullah reported that the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) said: The similitude of five prayers is like an overflowing river passing by the gate of one of you in which he washes five times daily Hasan said: No filthiness can remain on him.
2. The Tree
Also used as a reference to prayer. I visited the Prophet during his ailments and he was suffering from a high fever. I said, "You have a high fever. Is it because you will have a double reward for it?" He said, "Yes, for no Muslim is afflicted with any harm but that Allah will remove his sins as the leaves of a tree fall down.”
3. The Mountains
Described symbolically with the form of a mountain in other versions of the Hadith “When the worshiper stands up in prayer, all his sins are brought and placed upon his head and shoulders, so whenever he bows and prostrates, they fall from him." [Bahyaqi, Tabaraani, authenticated by Al-AlBaanee]
----------------------------------------------------------
References
• Dr Pamela class material (Blackboard)
• http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/default.aspx?pageid=438&n=the-search-forunity-
8211-geometric-patterns-in-islam-2010-07-16
• http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2095263513000216
• http://www.vam.ac.uk/content/articles/t/teachers-resource-maths-and-islamic-art-anddesign/
• http://www.alartemag.be/en/en-art/the-crucial-role-of-geometry-in-islamic-art/
• http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/islam/art/art_1.shtml
• Dr Pamela class material (Blackboard)
• http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/default.aspx?pageid=438&n=the-search-forunity-
8211-geometric-patterns-in-islam-2010-07-16
• http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2095263513000216
• http://www.vam.ac.uk/content/articles/t/teachers-resource-maths-and-islamic-art-anddesign/
• http://www.alartemag.be/en/en-art/the-crucial-role-of-geometry-in-islamic-art/
• http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/islam/art/art_1.shtml
Tuesday, May 24, 2016
سَلَامٌ قَوْلًا مِن رَّبٍّ رَّحِيمٍ
By Nouran Abdelrahman
سَلَامٌ قَوْلًا مِن رَّبٍّ رَّحِيمٍ “Peace,
a word from a Merciful Lord”, one of the most soothing and harmonious phrases
in the Quran. It has no intention but to transmit the main message of Islam:
Peace and Love. And when I read this verse the first thing that came into my
head was enlightenment, light, white, and pure.
Through
the thought of these words, an image of what could express these beautiful
terms within Islamic context appeared. The product of this image was a
combination of ‘Islamic architecture’ features, and lighting effects. One of
the most prominent contemporary artists, who influenced this art project, and
also used lighting, was Julien Breton. Julien Breton is known for creating
marvelous art pieces through a mix of light, photography, choreography and
calligraphy. Breton, even though influenced by the Islamic calligraphy,
implemented this technique to produce latin phrases. Similarly, I have decided
to approach this art piece the same way. It was a mix of arabesque pattern,
lighting adjustment, and mashrabiyya effect.
First,
I drew the pattern and the verse digitally so that it would be later on cut.
Second, after it was cut and stuck, I created a small raised platform in order
to insert the light source properly. Third, the cube was mounted on the
platform, and a black background was at the back that reflects the light, which
is an image of the patterns. The room in which the pictures in was darkened in
order to get the maximum amount of light and dark contrast.
The
end result of this project displayed my portrayal of the Islam and peace
symbolism. I chose the shape of the cube, because it is pure and clean. It also
represents the most important worship place for Muslims, the Kaaba. The
arabesque pattern played a great role in the light reflection. This penetration
of light to the blunt and eminent darkness of humanity (outside) is saved by
the pure and beautiful light if Islam. The verse also glimmers through dark and
enlightens the hearts and paths of those who need to be guided through god’s
path. The verse is a tranquil message that shows how beautiful, peaceful and
artistic Islam is.
The
purpose of this art production is mainly to spread and elaborate on a message
that has been on and on repeated. Islam is neither terrorizing nor
discriminating, in fact, no religion is. However, this false consensus that Islam is no peace religion has been reemphasized by the Western world. No
religion is ever harmful; in fact, it’s a way to guide you to peace, love,
respect and, of course, life. Hence, those who harm in the name of religion do
not belong to it. As a person that
experienced multicultural societies throughout the years, people are not
virtuous from their religion but because of whom they are.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My
name is Nouran Yehia, and I am Egyptian. I am a third year architecture student
and currently 19 of age. I have lived in Dubai for nearly 16 years, and I
absolutely love it.
References:
·
"Julien
Breton – Kaalam | Art of Calligraphy Calligraphie, Light Painting, Calligraphe,
Graff, Graffiti, Performance, Live." Julien
Breton – Kaalam | Art of Calligraphy Calligraphie, Light Painting, Calligraphe,
Graff, Graffiti, Performance, Live. N.p., n.d. Web. 30 Mar. 2016.
·
"Stunning
Arabic Light Calligraphy by Julien Breton." Colossal. N.p., 23 July 2015.
Web. 01 Apr. 2016.
Sunday, May 22, 2016
We should all unite
By Nibal Khattar
My calligraphy consists of a
verse that indicates peace and unity. My verse briefly explains that we should
unite as God told us and not separate from each other. Therefore, this
resembles the strength we have when we gather as one as mentioned in the verse.
Drawing calligraphy is not as sophisticated as it might seem. We simply start
by taping two sharpened pencils together to create a 2D effect. Then we use a
calligraphy pen to outline the writings that have been previously done with a
pencil. When drawing calligraphy, the writing should be done with moderate
speed to create the effect of swift characters. Furthermore, we begin by
smoothing out the edges and perfect the shape of the characters.
Calligraphy is usually written in
sophisticated ways, which makes the appearance look more exquisite. The message
behind the verse is to unite and not separate. Although the verse is quite
short, it creates a book of meanings due to how important the aspect is and how
much we should stress on this subject. Unity is something that we all need
since we live in a world that has several troubles due to lack of unity. Most
of our troubles that we face everyday in our lives is results of us separating
and not working together as one. With that being said we can relate this to our
world problems that happen. If we had unity, we would not have had
discrimination problems, these problems will lead to bigger problems that cause
major chaos. Let us imagine a world that has one country. It would be amazing
if we live in a world that consists of a country with no borders and no
troubles. It would also be outstanding to live in this world with no authority
over others. Its better if we all work as one and not have someone to control
us and lead us to unwanted outcomes and paths. In that sense, we hope that one
day we can unite and work as one.
Many artists have inspired me to
give calligraphy a try, one calligrapher would be Khaleelullah Chemand.
Khaleelullah has created many logos in calligraphy form. He has made over 1,000
different and unique logos in calligraphy; each one has been perfected in a
beautiful way and made in a way to catch the attention of the viewer. Another
person who inspired me is my father himself because he had a long history with
drawing calligraphy. He taught me how to create my own calligraphy and taught
me how to draw the characters in a swift way. My father kept practicing
calligraphy and has now hung over 3 arts in different places in our house. He
inspired me to try this art and made me enjoy the act of drawing calligraphy
art. Last but not least, our teacher Pamela Chrabieh reminded us of the beauty
behind calligraphy art. We were first taught how to draw calligraphy in the
simplest form by filling in boxes to form a word in calligraphic form. Then, we
improve our skills by drawing calligraphy in a free writing way, which makes
your calligraphy skills better. After a couple of training sessions, our
calligraphy skills will become better until we can finally reach a state where
we can write and perfect the art of calligraphy.
Now, I will talk briefly about my self and how
I began to like calligraphy. I’m a 20-year-old student in the University of
Dubai. I am currently studying management in the business field. The middle
eastern studies course was a required for me. However, I am very glad that I
had the chance to take this course due to its high amount of information and
the knowledge it gave to me. I was taught how to perform a calligraphy art in
this course. Recently I have found interest in this subject, I began with
researching the topic and learning more about calligraphic art and began to
realize how beautiful it is.
In conclusion, we can finally
state that calligraphy is an amazing form of art and that it appeals better to
the eye than normal handwriting. I certainly wish to further develop may
calligraphy skills to become a professional with the level of my fathers
experience. One day I am sure that I will be able to create amazing art with
the help of the calligraphy skills that I have gained over the time of learning
in my Middle Eastern studies course and throughout my lifetime in the
university. I hope I inspired anyone with the calligraphy that I have drawn.
Also, I hope I proved to some that calligraphy is not as difficult as it might
seem in hopes of making people give it a try to see how amazing calligraphy is.
Resources:
http://www.al-bab.com/arab/visual/calligraphy.htm
Islamic calligraphy is a striking coloration between Arabic handwriting and calligraphy. The development of this exquisite section of art is strongly tied with the Holy Quran. Moreover, Islamic calligraphy includes Ottoman, Persian as well as Arabic calligraphy as they are Muslim states. The qalam, meaning pen, is the traditional instrument used to write with. This pen is made out of dried reed and/ or bamboo. Nashk, Diwani, Thuluth, Ruq’ah and Nastal’iq are the different cursive styles that are frequently used when engaging in practicing this beautiful way of writing.
My calligraphy consists of a
verse that indicates peace and unity. My verse briefly explains that we should
unite as God told us and not separate from each other. Therefore, this
resembles the strength we have when we gather as one as mentioned in the verse.
Drawing calligraphy is not as sophisticated as it might seem. We simply start
by taping two sharpened pencils together to create a 2D effect. Then we use a
calligraphy pen to outline the writings that have been previously done with a
pencil. When drawing calligraphy, the writing should be done with moderate
speed to create the effect of swift characters. Furthermore, we begin by
smoothing out the edges and perfect the shape of the characters.
Calligraphy is usually written in
sophisticated ways, which makes the appearance look more exquisite. The message
behind the verse is to unite and not separate. Although the verse is quite
short, it creates a book of meanings due to how important the aspect is and how
much we should stress on this subject. Unity is something that we all need
since we live in a world that has several troubles due to lack of unity. Most
of our troubles that we face everyday in our lives is results of us separating
and not working together as one. With that being said we can relate this to our
world problems that happen. If we had unity, we would not have had
discrimination problems, these problems will lead to bigger problems that cause
major chaos. Let us imagine a world that has one country. It would be amazing
if we live in a world that consists of a country with no borders and no
troubles. It would also be outstanding to live in this world with no authority
over others. Its better if we all work as one and not have someone to control
us and lead us to unwanted outcomes and paths. In that sense, we hope that one
day we can unite and work as one.
Many artists have inspired me to
give calligraphy a try, one calligrapher would be Khaleelullah Chemand.
Khaleelullah has created many logos in calligraphy form. He has made over 1,000
different and unique logos in calligraphy; each one has been perfected in a
beautiful way and made in a way to catch the attention of the viewer. Another
person who inspired me is my father himself because he had a long history with
drawing calligraphy. He taught me how to create my own calligraphy and taught
me how to draw the characters in a swift way. My father kept practicing
calligraphy and has now hung over 3 arts in different places in our house. He
inspired me to try this art and made me enjoy the act of drawing calligraphy
art. Last but not least, our teacher Pamela Chrabieh reminded us of the beauty
behind calligraphy art. We were first taught how to draw calligraphy in the
simplest form by filling in boxes to form a word in calligraphic form. Then, we
improve our skills by drawing calligraphy in a free writing way, which makes
your calligraphy skills better. After a couple of training sessions, our
calligraphy skills will become better until we can finally reach a state where
we can write and perfect the art of calligraphy.
Now, I will talk briefly about my self and how
I began to like calligraphy. I’m a 20-year-old student in the University of
Dubai. I am currently studying management in the business field. The middle
eastern studies course was a required for me. However, I am very glad that I
had the chance to take this course due to its high amount of information and
the knowledge it gave to me. I was taught how to perform a calligraphy art in
this course. Recently I have found interest in this subject, I began with
researching the topic and learning more about calligraphic art and began to
realize how beautiful it is.
In conclusion, we can finally
state that calligraphy is an amazing form of art and that it appeals better to
the eye than normal handwriting. I certainly wish to further develop may
calligraphy skills to become a professional with the level of my fathers
experience. One day I am sure that I will be able to create amazing art with
the help of the calligraphy skills that I have gained over the time of learning
in my Middle Eastern studies course and throughout my lifetime in the
university. I hope I inspired anyone with the calligraphy that I have drawn.
Also, I hope I proved to some that calligraphy is not as difficult as it might
seem in hopes of making people give it a try to see how amazing calligraphy is.
Resources:http://www.al-bab.com/arab/visual/calligraphy.htm
Friday, May 20, 2016
Mercy in Islam
By Fatima Hmeicho
My
work was inspired by the ideas and artworks of Bihnam al-Agzeer[5].
He is an Iraqi Christian calligrapher who uses his art to promote peace between
Muslims and Christians. He and his family were forced to leave Mosul because of
the accelerated violence towards the Christian community in Iraq. Despite
losing his home, he worked on creating peaceful art to bring the Iraqi
community, Muslims and Christians, together. I was inspired to choose a concept
that is taught in Islam and Christianity to promote peace and co-existence.
Process
So,
I designed my sentence and ensured its vertical symmetry. Then, I applied tape
over it because I want the message of mercy to be pure (white). Later, I used a
sponge to create a special effect by the colors (blue & green) indicating
heaven and its rivers. Once the colors dried up, I removed the tape and
outlined the words with blue and green glitter.
Biography
Description of the Artwork
Title
|
Be Merciful!
|
Media
|
A2 Paper supported by cartoon board
Acrylic paint
Glitter glue
|
Dimensions
|
42 x 59 cm
|
Technique
|
Blending paint by latex sponge
|
Style
|
Vertical Arabic Calligraphy
|
Message
Ever since I was a little girl, my mom has taught me
to be kind to all people whether they were worthy or not. While growing up, I
realized that being merciful is not just a cultural concept but also religious.
In school, I learnt that different religions encourage people to show mercy to
other people and animals. Also, I read how it helps in building strong
relationships with people, hence building peaceful societies. However, this was
not the only reason that encouraged me to relate peace to mercy. Being exposed
to what is happening in the Arab world today, especially in Syria, hurts me and
provokes me to act, to save the helpless, and to restore peace. What actually
breaks my heart is the scared looks on the children's faces in war zones. Fortunately,
I was given the chance to fight violence with peaceful art. Therefore, I chose
to represent the relationship between Islam and Peace through Mercy.
My artwork is based on the Prophet Mohammad's words.
The hadith goes as follows
Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (ﷺ) kissed his grandson Hasan bin 'Ali in the
presence of Aqra' bin Habis. Thereupon Aqra' remarked: "I have ten
children, and I have never kissed any one of them." The Messenger of Allah
(ﷺ) cast a
glance upon him and said, "He who does not show mercy to others, will
not be shown mercy."[1]
This is not the only hadith that encourage people/ Muslims to be
kindhearted. The prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also said: “The merciful are shown
mercy by the All-Merciful. Show mercy to those on earth, and He Who is in
heaven will show mercy unto you”[2]
Both hadiths relate God's mercy on us in this world and the Hereafter to
our mercy to humankind and animals. This shows that Islam strongly calls us to Be
Merciful unlike what people think. In many courses, I had to listen to
people claiming that Islam spread by force which contradicts its message 'Al
salam' although history tells us that Abu Bakr specifically told Yazid ibn
Abi-Sufian “I give you ten commandments: don’t kill a woman, or a child, or an
old person, and don’t cut trees, or ruin dwellings, or slay a sheep but for
food. Don't burn palm trees, or drown them. And don’t be spiteful or unjust.”[3]
All of this proves that Islam calls for peace and mercy.
Inspiration
The choice of calligraphy was based on my attempt to perfect my soul
since "calligraphy is the geometry of the spirit"[4]. Also
through the course, I associated calligraphy with religious productions,
especially the Quran, which inspired me to further associate calligraphy with
Hadith. However, whoever knows the rules of calligraphy, knows that I broke
those rules. All I wanted was to produce something different that demonstrates
my message and provokes people's interest. I thought I can link the limitless
application of calligraphy with the endless applications of mercy.
My
work was inspired by the ideas and artworks of Bihnam al-Agzeer[5].
He is an Iraqi Christian calligrapher who uses his art to promote peace between
Muslims and Christians. He and his family were forced to leave Mosul because of
the accelerated violence towards the Christian community in Iraq. Despite
losing his home, he worked on creating peaceful art to bring the Iraqi
community, Muslims and Christians, together. I was inspired to choose a concept
that is taught in Islam and Christianity to promote peace and co-existence.
Process
So,
I designed my sentence and ensured its vertical symmetry. Then, I applied tape
over it because I want the message of mercy to be pure (white). Later, I used a
sponge to create a special effect by the colors (blue & green) indicating
heaven and its rivers. Once the colors dried up, I removed the tape and
outlined the words with blue and green glitter.
Biography
I am, Fatima Hmeicho, a senior business student
majoring in Accounting, Economics, and Finance and graduating in May 2016. I
was born in Syria where I received most of my education. I moved to Dubai in
2012 with my family to follow my dreams of being an outstanding business women.
[2] IslamReligion.com. URL: http://www.islamreligion.com/articles/1183/viewall/my-mercy-prevails-over-my-wrath/
[3] Islamic Research Foundation International Inc. URL: http://www.irfi.org/articles3/articles_4601_4700/war%20ethics%20in%20islamhtml.htm
The Dome of Peace
By Mohammad Almajedi
The Dome of peace is the name I have chosen for my artwork. I chose this name since I
drew a Dome and under it the word Peace in Arabic and English.The Idea of calling it The Dome of peace came to me from The Shrine of Dome of the rock.
My
idea is basically to write سلام (salaam) in the Kufic calligraphy and
above it the word peace. But peace will be written in a way that is similar to
the style of the Kufic calligraphy.
I got
influenced to write peace in a similar way to Kufic Calligraphy by the artist
Julien Breton. Since the Breton’s style is writing English letters in the form
of Arabic calligraphy. So I wrote سلام in a Kufic calligraphy and peace in a
similar shape.
I specifically
chose the word سلام and peace because they have the same
meaning and at the same time they both represent Islam.
The Dome above
the two words Symbolizes Islam.
The gold color
for the dome was chosen for 2 reasons.
| 1st reason is that I wanted to give my artwork something
related to the Islamic history and I found the dome of the rock a good choice.
| The 2nd reason is that in Islam the gold color it
paradise and by that I meant to show that the path to paradise is Islam.
As Edgar Degas
said “Art is not what you see, but what you make others see”.
In conclusion,
I have tried to translate my opinions and thoughts of Islam into art with my
humble abilities. And I hope that I made people see what I see.
Thursday, May 19, 2016
When you are angry, be silent
By Dana Kachlan
Hello,
meet Dana Kachlan. A Lebanese girl who is always up
for a little adventure and experiencing the new. And that is one of the reasons why she chose to
major in Creative Advertising at the American University in Dubai. She saw that
through her projects, she’d never fall into a routine since one idea is
completely different than the other. Dana has two principles that she follows
in her work and life practice. First, she credits that details are the
foundation of everything. She believes that we are a detail in society, and
based on that, she created an entire campaign called “Al Tafseel Al Fasel” or
“The Defining Detail.” Second, she believes that the filtering of words could
save lives. When angry, she stays silent, revises her thoughts and words, and
then speaks. Those two principles helped her stay focused, organized, and sane
at all times. Who knew it was that easy? Since Dana is always up to try new
activities, over the years she grasped a couple of interests such as: Law,
Calculus, Philosophy, Psychology, and Event planning. Interesting fact about
Dana: In school, Dana would always excel in Calculus but failed to impress in
Geometry. Weird right? As for her hobbies, she enjoys photography, basketball,
fitness, drawing, and music.
"When you are angry, be silent,”
a Hadith said by Prophet Mohammed PBUH. We create war and blame the
consequences on each other. We live our lives in constant fear of not knowing
when the next war is about to happen. Or even sadder, we live in war zones or
even hear about them over the news on a daily basis. War happens to be the norm
now a day, as peace comes once every now and then. If only people knew how to
communicate, maybe we could be living in a better world today and everyday. It
is
said that humans have it in them to
promote war but if only we read and searched more we would know that the
Prophet himself asked us not to hurt each other, not only through weapons but
not even with words. Then we have Jesus who promotes peace and love through the
bible and his sayings. If our religions tell us to make peace, love one
another, and understand each other, then where are we going wrong? What is it
that is making us fall back to war repeatedly. To bring the attention to the
topic of War and peace, I thought the hadith "When you are angry, be
silent" said by the Prophet Mohammed PBUH best illustrates the matter. This
Hadith inspires me to be a better person today and everyday. It makes me think
twice before I communicate. It teaches me how to be a nicer person. What really
made me want to bring attention to this Hadith are two factors. The first is
the fact that I am a great believer of the filtering of words. During an
argument, I usually practice revising my words before throwing them out to
avoid making a mountain out of a molehill or even to avoid hurting the other
person. Both ways, we end up feeling guilt when having said something unkind or
despicable so why not take the time to amend and filter the words before saying
them? I also realized that the whole process of modifying the words said help a
person become more tolerant, patient, and in control. I truly think any
relationship would be better if barely anything mean was to come out of
anyone's mouth. If we revise our words, we get to explain them in a sensible
and an understandable way, which would lead to a mature conversation rather
than an argument or a fight. The second factor is that the entire Hadith is not
meant to spread peace in Islam only but it is also meant to be shared among all
religions and races around the world. We aren't put in this world to fight each
other. We aren't meant to despise each other. The least we can do is be at
peace if we don't want to love one another.
As for the artwork itself, I created an A2
sized canvas that has the Hadith mentioned above written on it using both
styles of pop art and Kufic calligraphy. The entire artwork is drawn by the use
of basics such as a black marker for the words outlines, colored markers to
fill in the words, and paper, which is wrinkled to get the message across. So I
wouldn’t call the artwork a painting, instead, it is a drawing that encounters
specific styles to help get the message of War and peace across. Each and every
stylistic choice will be explained in the next few lines. So first, let’s begin
by discussing the Kufic script. I decided to choose it not only because I was
inspired by it after the MEST class workshop and wanted to explore it further
more, but also I thought it emphasized how long ago the quote has been there
for the people to acknowledge and be inspired by. The Kufic style is one of the
earliest forms of calligraphy and hence I thought writing the Hadith in that
style would estimate the age of its existence.
Second, as for the aesthetic choice
of wrinkling the paper, it was not an option that I thought of first, but as I
was mounting the paper onto the board, I saw that it would make far more sense
if the paper was wrinkled since it conveyed destruction which meant war while
the Hadith itself spoke peace. That way we have war and peace conveyed through
one artwork yet peace wins since it comes on top of the war (Hadith over the
wrinkled paper.) Every stylistic style has a reason behind it, which makes
the entire artwork have representations that are both realistic and a
metaphorical. Third, stylistically I wanted to bring out a style that I very
much admire and usually apply to most of my art, which is pop art. First, I
wouldn't say an artist influenced me, but rather by the entire movement, which
helped me create this artwork along with many that, I have previously done. I
realized whenever the subject is very dear to me, I tend to use pop art as my
style and hence since this topic is something I truly follow I wanted to manage
and make it work with the pop art style. I thought the use of colors brings
life to any topic, turning a sad subject into something less harsh or at least
gets a message across in a more subtle way. Second, usually each color on its
own represents an emotion. But for this project I wanted to unite all emotions
on one canvas to portray the idea of peace. In a way that turns peace into an
emotion. The unification of almost all the colors on one canvas could also mean
the emergence of all religions and all races. Whether it was the Kufic style
that was used to emphasize how long the hadith has been around for, or the
wrinkly paper to show that peace dominates war, or the use of vibrant, happy
colors to bring joy to the idea of unification, all aspects were meant to lead
to the idea of peace and that nothing but peace has the power to make us all
live in a better world. Now that I introduced myself, the artwork title,
description, media, technique, style, influence, why I chose it, and what it
means to me along with my statement, time to remind you of one thing: Always
filter and revise your words before saying them. An argument could turn into a
conversation through reasoning. Communicate peace always.
Islam is Peace
By Carine Ezzedine
Dimensions: 297x420mm (WxH) / Resolution:
300 pixels/inch
Media: Digital (Adobe Illustrator)
Technique and style: Calligraphy and
illustration portrait
The concept I illustrated in the art piece
came from the inspiration I got from a video I watched recently. It talks about
how Islam in general is not a part of any negative territory or a bad thing in
the society like other disbelievers view it or makes it this way. Islam is all
about faith, peace, positivity, and optimism. Islam is a medicine. It’s a cure
for all your problems,“fal deen yosr wa laysa 3osr” and that is فالدين يسر و ليس عسر"”, meaning “Islam is ease and not Hardship.” Islam shares many religious figures and historical events with
Judaism and Christianity, which indicates that Islam wants or proves itself in
the societies that it is a peaceful religion and doesn’t want any conflicts
within each person and the other.
What I did through the illustration is that
I used Adobe Illustration one of the programs that I use and illustrated like a
gate to implement something like an entrance to peace and ease of life through
Islam with some of the Arabian patterns/style. Then the person is made from
phrases and ayat from the Quran that can meditate and give us hope and
relaxation. I wanted to show how reading one word or sentence and how just
praying can give you a connection with god. Not only in Islam, but other
religions too. A prayer can give you motivation and lead you to become a better
person and have a relationship with God; a personal one, especially when you
are struggling in big things or even small things. Moreover, I added, “Islam is
Peace” in Arabic and wrote it in a way that it looks like one word; “الاسلام” I made the word
peace in Arabic bold so we can see that the word Islam in Arabic has the word
peace in it. Islam means surrender of one’s will to the true will of God in the
effort to achieve peace and Salam, which means peace, is the root word of
"Islam".This can literally summarize everything and solve everything
you are going through internally and externally, or even the whole society we
live in. Islam is a complete way of life that governs all facets of life such
as, social, economical, physical, spiritual, moral, etc…
On the other hand, the
person in the middle raising his hand to the light on the top right corner
praying to rest his mind or for harmony and amity to the world or for any
spiritual help. Moreover, the man is made up of phrases and words in Islam starting
with the Basmala, which is right under the hands of the person. The Basmala
“Bismillah Alrahman Al Rahim” “
"بسم
الله الرحمن الرحيم"
The Basmala is usually written and said
before every surah in the Quran and when some one wants to do something. The
phrase means In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Then I
started adding ayat that I like and make me feel blissful and have the sense of
serenity, peace, and power. So I started with “Give us victory over the
disbelieving people, أنت
مولانا فانصرنا على القوم الكافرين”. It’s from surat
al baqarah, and it’s asking God for help and power over the terrorists and the
disbelievers to show them that they are right and don’t have any judgment towards
any other religions or beliefs. Moreover another thing that influenced me to write
was “O You who believe! Enter absolutely into peace (Islam). Do not follow in
the footsteps of Satan. He is an outright enemy to you.” (Holy Quran: 2, 208) Additionally, I wrote
one of the five pillars in Islam, which is the declaration of faith and hope.
The reason I used calligraphy and text in
my art piece is because I also got inspired from the Arabic posters and
paintings that pass by me everyday on pinterest such as, Mahmoud Fathy and
Tarek atrissi. Their artworks grab my attention a lot since they combine text
or calligraphy with other objects or even writing them in the same look or
shape of this specific object or even animals and people. There is one that
grabbed my attention, which was using calligraphy and drawing it as a sufi;
it’s very beautiful and eye catching.
To conclude, the word “Islam” is derived
from the word meaning “peace” in Arabic. Islam is a religion revealed to
mankind with the intention of presenting a peaceful life where the infinite
compassion and mercy of God manifests on earth. God calls all people to live by
the moral values. He sets so that compassion, mercy, peace and love can be
experienced all over the world, since Islam essentially calls for peace and
fosters a life in absolute sincerity and honesty before God. Therefore it is
vitally important for an individual to believe in God with his own will and
aspiration, and observe God’s commands and advice through personal
conscientious contentment.
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Carine Ezzeddine, analogue at birth,
digital by design. A Lebanese panda-loving designer and a coffee-drinker, born
and raised in her second home United Arab Emirates. She speaks about her work
and life, striving to become great at her job. Besides, she wants bigger things
in life, loves when inner kid takes command, finds passion in creating visual
stuff, and prefers on always trying new adventures.
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