Expert Oludamini Ogunnaike and guests discuss the silent theology of Islamic art, its profound beauty, and the role in inspiring early conversions to Islam. They explore traditional arts, calligraphy, poetry, and music, highlighting the challenges and evolution in creating meaningful art. The podcast delves into the significance of language, artistic expression, mosque design, and blending Western and Islamic artistic influences in music.
Islamic art communicates the beauty and truth of Islam directly, surpassing written or spoken communication.
Practitioners in Islamic arts balance traditional forms with artistic freedom to nurture creativity.
Handcrafted Islamic arts retain enduring value and spiritual resonance amidst digital art trends.
Deep dives
The Profound Directness of Islamic Art and its Reflective Qualities
Islamic art, as discussed in the podcast, conveys the beauty and truth of revelation in a profoundly direct manner, surpassing the resonance of mere written or spoken communication about Islam. The art is praised for reflecting the interconnectedness between mathematics, cosmology, and sacred sciences, historically found in ancient mosques and poetic works by Hafez and Rumi. Olu Domini Ogunaki emphasizes that this art form resonates silently but powerfully with individuals, touching hearts and evoking deep connections beyond intellectual understanding.
The Silent Theology and Laborious Craft of Islamic Arts
A panel discussion at Zaytuna College highlights the intricate nature of Islamic arts, such as Arabic calligraphy and architectural design, emphasizing the meticulous craftsmanship and spiritual depth involved in creating these art forms. The practitioners, Eleanor Aisha Holland and Abdilatif Ian Whiteman, underscore the arduous yet rewarding nature of their work, which entails a fusion of lofty metaphysical concepts and hands-on craftsmanship grounded in practical labor and dedication.
Balancing Tradition, Discipline, and Freedom in Islamic Arts
The discussion delves into the balance between adhering to traditional Islamic artistic forms and fostering artistic freedom within established boundaries. While individual genius is recognized in Islamic arts, practitioners are encouraged to conform to artistic traditions and discipline. This adherence paradoxically nurtures creative liberty and allows artists to attain profound beauty and freedom within the established constraints, akin to gymnasts who achieve exceptional feats through disciplined practice.
Challenges of Preserving and Evolving Traditional Islamic Arts in Modern Society
As modern society increasingly embraces digital art production, the discussion highlights the enduring value and significance of handcrafted Islamic arts. Participants express concerns about the impact of digital art on individuals' engagement with traditional forms, stressing the irreplaceable depth, presence, and spiritual resonance attained through handcrafted Islamic arts. The need to balance technology with the preservation of timeless artistic principles and disciplines is underscored for the continued evolution and relevance of Islamic arts in contemporary contexts.
Emphasizing the Importance of Traditional Islamic Arts and Practices
Creating an ambiance of traditional Islamic arts, spending time in nature and with the Quran, and surrounding oneself with beauty aids in fostering a deep connection to the spiritual essence of Islamic arts. Finding a teacher or mentor, practicing regularly, and embracing unexpected challenges while learning traditional arts are key aspects that contribute to honing one's skills and developing a profound appreciation for the craft.
Exploring the Fusion of Islamic and Western Artistic Expressions
While attempting to merge Islamic and Western artistic expressions can pose challenges, it can be achieved through understanding traditional forms, principles, and musical traditions. By immersing oneself in the beauty of Islamic arts, studying the Quran, and being mentored by experienced individuals, aspiring artists can navigate the complexities of blending cultural elements while staying true to the essence of Islamic artistry.
To many, the silent theology of Islamic art can speak more profoundly and clearly than the most scholarly works, and its beauty can be more evident and persuasive than the strongest of arguments. The Qur’an is not a set of syllogisms or prosaic rational proofs but a recitation of unmatched linguistic beauty, filled with symbols, stories, metaphors, and poetic phrasing. It was the beauty in artistic expression which inspired many of the earliest conversions to Islam. Read Oludamini Ogunnaike's article about Islamic Art for Renovatio: https://renovatio.zaytuna.edu/article/the-silent-theology-of-islamic-art This podcast is an audio recording of a panel called The Silent Theology of Islamic Art, with Oludamini Ogunnaike, Elinor Aishah Holland, and Abdal Latif Ian Whiteman. Oludamini Ogunnaike: https://renovatio.zaytuna.edu/authors/oludamini-ogunnaike Elinor Aishah Holland: http://harmonyofline.com Ian Whiteman: https://ianwhiteman.blog
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