Fall 2008

MES 322K • GENDER AND ART IN MUSLIM WORLD

Course Description

This course is a survey of the development of Islamic art (inclusive of most expressive, and creative art forms) in the Muslim societies from the earliest to the present time with a focus on gender and contemporary artistic issues. Topics will include: gender and gender identities; art patronage, Orientalism, themes of power; and their influential roles in form and express formation, the dominant artistic traditions before and after 1900, the loss of traditional aesthetics due to Western influence, and the re-emergence of calligraphic art as an expression of "Universal Muslim Identity", and themes of artistic expressions as it is related to current world events (war, occupation of land, and religious resurgence).Discussions incorporate analysis of historical, political, social & economical factors that gave rise to aesthetic changes in the regional cultures. Selected biographical data on some of the most influential traditional and modern Muslim artists will be discussed, to provide a basis for the appreciation of the artistic works and the important roles played by the artists in regards to the theme of Gender, in both the traditional and the contemporary Muslim societies.

Grading Policy

Class participation/presentations 10% Attendance 5% Pop tests 10% Midterm Exam 35% Final Paper: Written Paper 25% Oral Presentation 15%

Texts

Readers' packet.

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