Islamic Art

The course plans to acquaint students with the richest artistic tradition of the Muslim world in the broadest aspect. The variety of works of art created in the regions where Islam spread is due to its wide geographical range. Students will get acquainted with the Islamic architectural tradition of the countries of the Near and Middle East, Central Asia, India, some European countries; with a handwritten, calligraphic tradition; with the art of miniature and the diversity of its schools in the Islamic East; with artistic principles and related techniques for creating glass art, bronze, ceramics, jewelry, weapons, carpets and fabrics, and more. The course is a journey through the history of art in various regions of the Muslim world from antiquity to the present day. The main idea of the course is the desire to show that in the world of Islam the specificity of the language of art is determined by the absolute belief in a single, indivisible God - Allah, the creator of earthly beauty, which is a reflection of heavenly beauty - Paradise. The course was developed jointly with the State Hermitage Museum.

The course format includes mini-interviews and master classes with experts in the field of Muslim art.

The course is conceived as popular science and the most spectacular, designed for the widest audience.

1. Islamic art in the World
2. Word and writing
3. Holy Quran, pillars of Islam and art
4. Book and miniature
5. Religious and public buildings in the East
6. Palace and home: Applied art
7. East and West: Cultural dialogue in art
8. Modern art of the Muslim world