The Islamic civilization did away with sculptures because of religious beliefs. Provide two examples of acceptable art forms according to Islamic tenets. How do these art forms express Islamic religion and culture? Can somebody help me with this question? Thanks!
http://www.huntfor.com/arthistory/medieval/islamic.htm
http://www.hilalplaza.com/islamic-art/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Islamic_art
http://www.colostate.edu/orgs/MSA/find_more/islart.html
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Islamic art is known for its prohibition on depicting humans or animals in a realistic manner, as it is often believed to be an infringement on the uniqueness and omnipotence of Allah. However, it does not mean that Islamic civilization abandoned art altogether. Instead, they focused on developing other forms of artistic expression that adhered to their religious beliefs. Here are two examples of acceptable art forms according to Islamic tenets:
1. Calligraphy: Islamic calligraphy is the art of writing beautiful and ornamental script, typically using Arabic script. It is regarded as one of the highest art forms in Islamic culture, and it serves a religious purpose by conveying the word of Allah. Calligraphy is often used to transcribe verses from the Quran or other religious texts, and its intricate designs and patterns are highly valued.
2. Geometric and Arabesque Designs: Islamic art extensively uses geometric patterns and arabesque designs, which are characterized by intricate, repetitive, and symmetrical patterns of shapes and lines. These designs are seen in various elements of Islamic art, such as architecture, woodwork, ceramics, textiles, and even in the ornamental details of everyday objects. Geometric patterns symbolize the infinite nature of Allah, and the arabesque designs reflect the concept of unity within diversity.
Both calligraphy and geometric/arabesque designs express Islamic religion and culture in a few ways:
1. Spiritual Reflection: Islamic art often aims to stimulate spiritual contemplation and connect the viewer to the divine. The decorative patterns in Islamic art can evoke a sense of wonder and transcendence, reminding viewers of the beauty and orderliness of Allah's creation.
2. Symbolism and Unity: The intricate geometric patterns and repetition of motifs in Islamic art symbolize the unity of the universe and the order inherent in Allah's creation. The absence of figurative representation allows for a more abstract expression of religious devotion and adherence to Islamic principles.
3. Adaptation and Innovation: Islamic art has developed its own unique visual language, incorporating elements from different regional and cultural influences. It has evolved distinct regional styles while still adhering to the overall principles of Islamic artistic expression.
By focusing on calligraphy, geometric patterns, and arabesque designs, Islamic art has been able to express the religious beliefs and cultural values of the Islamic civilization while adhering to the prohibition on realistic depictions of living beings.