HUMA 1845 Islamic Traditions

Specific Assignment Summary: The students are provided with links to 3 museums which have permanent collections with objects of art of the Muslim world. Students are asked to visit these collections and to select and curate ONE object to submit as their contribution to the Class exhibition "Art of the Muslim World."   To successfully complete this Assignment, students are asked to complete the following tasks: 1. ‘Visit’ three museum collections of Islamic art.  2. Select one object and decide how to present it. Students may use traditional or modern methods of displaying/showcasing these objects. The former includes providing a photo of an object and expert citation and description underneath the image; The latter includes different forms of animation of the object, narrated video presentation, etc.  3. Provide an expert-citation for the object of Islamic art of their choice. 4. Write an expert description of the object, highlighting its purpose (religious or non-religious), the form(s) of its artistic production, and its exceptional artistic and other qualities. 5. Explain why the given object merits attention and what aspects of its aesthetic and other qualities they find particularly significant.  Format of the Assignment: Students are required to provide a three-paragraph description of an object of Islamic art. These paragraphs should have the following elements: 1. Paragraph 1 a. Image and caption (under the image) The caption should include the artist's name (if known), the title of the object, year of production, place of origin, current house (i.e. Museum) and material used in the production. b. A basic description of the object (shape, colours, materials)  2. Paragraph 2 a. An expert description of the object. In this part, students explain to other viewers the qualities of the objects that can not be known only through observation. These qualities include the purpose of the object and its relevance to the social, religious, or cultural life of the community where it was used or made. Students may also compare the object of their choice with similar objects in the Museum and explain its unique qualities. Students are expected to use ONE academic source to write this paragraph. You may use up to 20 words in the direct quote(s)