When & Where

Quick Facts

  • Availability Yes
  • Tutor Fatemeh Takht Keshian
  • Course Code W24PDGB01A
  • Suitable For 19 year olds and up are permitted on this course

What you will learn

You will explore the intricate patterns that define Islamic art, spanning various regions and historical periods. You will learn about the cultural, religious, and philosophical contexts behind geometric, vegetal, and calligraphic designs. Through lectures, readings, and some hands-on activities, you will study the integration of patterns in architecture and other media, and examine contemporary interpretations. By the end of the course, you will have a comprehensive understanding of the artistic traditions and innovations in Islamic art.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

  • Demonstrate knowledge of the cultural, religious, and philosophical contexts that shape Islamic art patterns.
  • Identify and analyze the mathematical principles and symbolic meanings behind Islamic geometric patterns.
  • Understand the characteristics and significance of vegetal (arabesque) and calligraphic patterns in Islamic art.
  • Compare and contrast the patterns in Islamic art across different regions, such as the Middle East, Persia, South Asia, and Al-Andalus.
  • Analyze the use and integration of patterns in Islamic architecture and other media.

Class format and activities

This course will be taught in an informal lecture/ discussion format with presentations shared on screen. There will be a 10-minute break in the middle of the session. You are encouraged to engage in discussion and lecture materials will be shared by email. Constructive and supportive feedback from your tutor will help you succeed during the class.

Entry requirements

There are no entry requirements. This course will be accessible to you if you have no prior knowledge of art and design and is open to learners with varying backgrounds, as well as art practitioners

What you need

You will find it helpful to bring a paper and pen for making notes

What you can do next

We offer a range of long and short courses in art history at Morley and cover a range of periods and subjects of interest.