Sacred and Symbolic Concepts of Islamic Art

The course consists of three lectures:

 

1. Mysticism of Color in Islamic Art

One of the most captivating aspects of Islamic Art is its use of color. Within the realm of Islamic thought, color transcends mere aesthetics, forging profound meanings and revealing mystic values hidden within sacred texts, sayings, and literature. This study delves into the mysticism of color in Islamic art, exploring its significance from the Holy Quran to the interpretations of Najm al-Din Kubra, Najm al-Din Razi, and other renowned mystics and Sufis. This lecture aims to uncover the structural, visionary, and meaningful roles of color in Islamic mysticism, as well as in religious paintings and architecture.

1. Symbolism of Numbers in Islamic Art

In Islamic art, numbers hold a profound symbolic significance, weaving a thread of unity and harmony throughout artistic expressions. This symbolism is deeply rooted in Islamic Mysticism, Sufism and Philosophy, with numbers serving as metaphors for divine attributes, cosmic principles, and spiritual realities. The use of specific numbers such as three, five, seven, twelve, and fourteen often reflects intricate theological and cosmological ideas, mirroring the spiritual and mystical dimensions of Islam.

Numbers in Islamic art are not mere decorative elements; they embody a greater metaphysical order within the universe. This talk will focus on scholarly studies of mysticism and symbolism of numbers in art and architecture unveiling how numbers are keys to opening meaning in Islamic aesthetics.

1. Creativity in Islamic Art

Islamic artists harness creativity through intricate geometric patterns, arabesques, and calligraphy, all of which symbolize the infinite nature of creation. This approach transcends individualism and highlights a collective aspiration to portray the divine presence in the material world. The repetition and symmetry in their works are not just aesthetic choices but a testament to an unending pursuit of knowledge and the mystical dimensions of the universe.

In essence, creativity in Islamic art is a meditative act, where the artist's skill and imagination converge to express the unity, beauty, and harmony of existence. This unique blend of spirituality and artistry serves as a bridge, connecting the physical and metaphysical, the finite, and the infinite. Accordingly, this talk will focus on what creativity means from the approach of Asmāʼ al-Ḥusnā, how the sufis justify it, and how Muslim artists cast and express creativeness.

Lecturer: Dr. Meysam Yazdi holds a Ph.D. in Art Theory and Research from the Art University of Isfahan, renowned as a cultural hub in Iran and world UNESCO Heritage city of Arts and Crafts, and a Master's degree in Aesthetics from the Art University in Tehran. His scholarly work is deeply rooted in the exploration of Islamic art through the lenses of Theosophy (Hikmah), Mysticism, and contemporary theoretical frameworks.