10.3 Islamic Art in the 19th and 20th Centuries
4 min read•august 15, 2024
The 19th and 20th centuries brought major changes to Islamic art. Western introduced new styles and techniques, leading to a fusion of traditional and modern elements. This created hybrid art forms that blended Islamic and European aesthetics.
As Islamic societies grappled with modernity, artists explored new ways to express their heritage. combined traditional motifs with contemporary techniques, while abstract art allowed for spiritual exploration without figurative representation. These movements shaped the evolution of Islamic art in the modern era.
Colonialism's Impact on Islamic Art
Western Influences on Artistic Styles
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- Colonialism introduced Western artistic styles and techniques to Islamic art
- Resulted in fusion of traditional and modern elements
- Created hybrid art forms blending Islamic and European aesthetics
- Colonial powers established art academies and museums
- Influenced education and training of Islamic artists
- Exposed artists to European artistic traditions and techniques
- Western orientalist paintings and photography romanticized Islamic culture
- Influenced how Islamic artists portrayed their own heritage
- Led to new interpretations of traditional Islamic themes and motifs
Changes in Production and Urban Design
- Importation of industrial materials and technologies from the West transformed artistic production
- Altered traditional craftsmanship methods
- Introduced new mediums like photography and printmaking
- Colonial urban planning challenged traditional Islamic design
- Introduced new architectural styles (, )
- Changed city layouts away from traditional Islamic urban principles
- Tension arose between preserving traditions and adopting modernist approaches
- Some artists embraced Western styles while others resisted
- Resulted in complex hybrid art forms blending old and new
Modernity and Artistic Transformations
Emergence of Islamic Modernism
- Islamic Modernism combined traditional motifs with modern techniques
- Reinterpreted classical Islamic art through contemporary lens
- Examples include modern takes on miniature painting and
- Abstract art gained popularity among Islamic artists
- Allowed exploration of spiritual concepts without figurative representation
- Aligned with Islamic (avoidance of depicting sentient beings)
- Calligraphy evolved from traditional to experimental styles
- Artists pushed boundaries of legibility and form
- Calligraffiti movement fused calligraphy with street art aesthetics
Influence of Global Art Movements
- Rise of nationalism led to distinct national artistic styles
- Incorporated both Islamic and regional cultural elements
- Examples include Turkish Primitive movement and Sudanese Crystalism
- addressed contemporary issues in Islamic societies
- Artists depicted social inequalities, political struggles, and daily life
- Prominent in countries like Iran and Egypt during periods of social change
- Global art movements inspired new interpretations of Islamic traditions
- Cubism influenced in Islamic art
- Surrealism inspired exploration of mysticism and dreams
- New art forms provided platforms for exploring identity and culture
- allowed immersive experiences with Islamic themes
- addressed issues of gender and religion in Islamic contexts
Islamic Art in National Identity
Cultural Resistance and Revival
- Islamic art symbolized resistance against colonial powers
- Artists incorporated traditional motifs to assert cultural identity
- Led to renewed interest in historical Islamic art forms and techniques
- Neo-Islamic architecture blended modern and traditional elements
- Used in design of national monuments and public buildings
- Examples include the Shah Faisal Mosque in Pakistan
- Islamic design elements used in national branding
- Calligraphy and geometric patterns in logos and graphic design
- Created visual identities for newly independent Islamic nations
- Cultural revival movements reinterpreted classical traditions
- in Arab world revitalized literature and visual arts
- Similar movements in Turkey, Iran, and South Asia
Institutions and Contemporary Explorations
- Islamic art exhibitions fostered cultural diplomacy
- Biennales and international shows showcased national artistic achievements
- Promoted dialogue between Islamic countries and with the West
- National museums and cultural institutions established
- Focused on preserving and promoting Islamic art heritage
- Examples include the in Doha, Qatar
- Contemporary artists challenged traditional notions
- Explored themes of identity, gender, and religion in Islamic contexts
- Artists like Shirin Neshat and Mona Hatoum gained international recognition
Key Figures in Modern Islamic Art
Pioneering Artists and Architects
- bridged Western and Islamic traditions
- Created orientalist-style paintings with authentic cultural details
- Established Istanbul Archaeological Museum, preserving Islamic heritage
- revived traditional architecture techniques
- Pioneered use of mud-brick and passive cooling in modern contexts
- Influenced sustainable design in Islamic countries (New Gourna village project)
- explored intersection of Islamic philosophy and conceptual art
- Created innovative public art installations (Bridge series)
- Integrated poetry and architectural elements in sculptures
Innovators in Abstraction and Design
- developed "One Dimension" theory
- Integrated Islamic spirituality with modern abstract art
- Influenced generation of Arab artists through Baghdad Group for Modern Art
- revolutionized Islamic architecture
- Created deconstructivist and parametric designs (Heydar Aliyev Center)
- Challenged traditional notions of space and form in Islamic contexts
- incorporated Islamic geometry into modernist compositions
- Created vibrant abstract paintings inspired by traditional motifs
- Influenced development of modernist art in North Africa (Casablanca School)
Key Terms to Review (28)
Algiers Mosque: The Algiers Mosque, also known as the Great Mosque of Algiers, is a significant Islamic place of worship located in the capital of Algeria. It exemplifies the evolution of Islamic architecture during the 19th and 20th centuries, reflecting both traditional Islamic design principles and influences from the colonial period, which shaped its architectural features and overall aesthetic.
Aniconism: Aniconism is the practice or belief in avoiding the representation of divine beings, prophets, or humans in visual art. This principle is rooted in Islamic theology, where the creation of images is often seen as an attempt to rival God's unique creative power. Aniconism influences various aspects of Islamic culture and art, shaping how artistic expression is approached in religious and secular contexts.
Art Deco: Art Deco is a design style that emerged in the early 20th century, characterized by its bold geometric patterns, rich colors, and luxurious materials. This movement influenced various forms of art and architecture, often blending traditional styles with modern innovations, leading to a unique aesthetic that captured the spirit of the Roaring Twenties and the Art Moderne period.
Beaux-arts: Beaux-Arts refers to a style of architecture and design that originated in France in the late 19th century, characterized by grandeur, classical influences, and elaborate ornamentation. This style became prominent in the context of 19th and 20th-century Islamic art as it influenced the design of public buildings and monuments in various Islamic regions, reflecting a blend of European architectural principles with local aesthetics.
Calligraphy: Calligraphy is the art of beautiful handwriting, often involving intricate designs and flourishes. In Islamic culture, it serves as a significant medium for artistic expression, connecting spirituality, communication, and aesthetics in various forms, including religious texts and decorative arts.
Colonialism: Colonialism is the practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting its resources. In the context of Islamic art in the 19th and 20th centuries, colonialism significantly influenced artistic expressions, cultural exchanges, and architectural styles as colonial powers imposed their ideologies and aesthetics on colonized regions.
Geometric abstraction: Geometric abstraction refers to an art movement characterized by the use of geometric forms, often simplified and stylized, to create compositions that emphasize visual relationships rather than representational accuracy. This concept emerged prominently in Islamic art during the 19th and 20th centuries, as artists began to experiment with non-figurative forms while still retaining cultural significance.
Hassan Fathy: Hassan Fathy was an influential Egyptian architect, renowned for his role in promoting traditional Islamic architecture and sustainable building practices during the 20th century. He is best known for his commitment to using local materials and techniques, as well as integrating modern needs with historical design elements, making significant contributions to Islamic art and architecture in a contemporary context.
Hybridization: Hybridization refers to the blending of different artistic styles, cultural influences, and techniques to create new forms of expression. In the context of Islamic art during the 19th and 20th centuries, hybridization showcases how traditional Islamic motifs can merge with Western styles and modern concepts, resulting in a unique artistic dialogue that reflects the cultural exchanges of the time.
Installation Art: Installation art is a three-dimensional artistic genre that transforms a space into an immersive experience, engaging the viewer in a specific environment. This form of art often incorporates various materials and media, creating a dialogue between the artwork and the surrounding space, often inviting viewers to interact with or reflect on their experience. In the context of Islamic art in the 19th and 20th centuries, installation art begins to emerge as artists seek new ways to express contemporary themes while referencing traditional Islamic aesthetics.
Islamic Modernism: Islamic Modernism is a reformist movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, seeking to reconcile Islamic principles with modern values such as democracy, science, and individual rights. This movement aimed to address the challenges posed by colonialism and modernization, promoting a reinterpretation of Islamic teachings to better fit contemporary life and societal changes.
Mohamed Melehi: Mohamed Melehi is a prominent Moroccan artist known for his influential role in contemporary Islamic art, particularly during the mid to late 20th century. His work reflects a synthesis of traditional Islamic motifs with modern abstract styles, challenging the boundaries between cultural heritage and contemporary expression. Melehi's contributions significantly shaped the discourse on Islamic art in the 19th and 20th centuries, as he sought to redefine and recontextualize the visual language of Islamic aesthetics.
Mohammad Reza Shajarian: Mohammad Reza Shajarian was a renowned Iranian vocalist, composer, and master of Persian classical music. He played a pivotal role in the popularization and revival of traditional Persian music during the 20th century, blending classical styles with contemporary themes and influences.
Mosaics: Mosaics are decorative art forms created by assembling small pieces of colored glass, stone, or other materials into intricate patterns and images. This art form plays a significant role in Islamic art, serving not only as a visual element but also as a way to express cultural identity and religious themes across various historical periods.
Museum of Islamic Art: The Museum of Islamic Art is a prominent institution dedicated to showcasing the rich heritage and artistic achievements of Islamic culture. This museum not only preserves and exhibits various forms of art, including ceramics, textiles, metalwork, and manuscripts, but also serves as a vital space for research and education about Islamic art across different historical periods. Its collections reflect the diversity and evolution of Islamic art from the 7th century to the modern era, bridging historical contexts with contemporary interpretations.
Nahda Movement: The Nahda Movement, also known as the Arab Renaissance, was a cultural, intellectual, and social revival that emerged in the 19th and early 20th centuries among Arab intellectuals. This movement aimed to reform and modernize Arab societies by embracing Western ideas while also promoting a rediscovery of Arab heritage and identity. The Nahda had a profound impact on literature, education, and art in the Islamic world, influencing the evolution of modern Islamic art and architecture.
National identity: National identity refers to a sense of belonging and shared characteristics among the people of a nation, often shaped by cultural, historical, and social factors. It encompasses the collective consciousness of a group and influences how individuals perceive themselves and their relationship to the state. In the context of the Qajar Dynasty in Iran and the evolution of Islamic art in the 19th and 20th centuries, national identity played a crucial role in expressing cultural heritage and responding to modernity.
Orientalism: Orientalism is a term used to describe the Western depiction and representation of the East, particularly the Islamic world, often characterized by stereotypes and a sense of exoticism. This concept has shaped Western perceptions of Islamic art and culture, leading to a romanticized but also distorted understanding that can overlook the complexities and realities of Eastern societies.
Osman Hamdi Bey: Osman Hamdi Bey was a prominent Ottoman painter, archaeologist, and museum curator, known for his role in modernizing art and cultural institutions in the Ottoman Empire during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His works blended Western artistic techniques with traditional Islamic themes, reflecting the complexities of cultural identity during a time of significant change in the empire.
Performance art: Performance art is a form of artistic expression that combines visual art with live performance, often emphasizing the artist's body as the medium. This genre emerged prominently in the 20th century and is characterized by its focus on the experience of the moment rather than the creation of a physical object. In the context of Islamic art during the 19th and 20th centuries, performance art serves as a medium for exploring cultural identity, social issues, and political commentary within Islamic societies.
Shakir Hassan Al Said: Shakir Hassan Al Said was an influential Iraqi artist known for his contributions to modern Islamic art during the 20th century. He played a pivotal role in integrating traditional Islamic themes with contemporary artistic practices, bridging the gap between past and present in the realm of visual arts. His work often reflects a deep engagement with Islamic culture while also embracing modern artistic techniques and expressions.
Siah armajani: Siah armajani refers to a distinctive Persian architectural style characterized by its use of intricate tile work and harmonious designs that emphasize the beauty of Islamic artistry. This style emerged in the late 19th century and continued into the 20th century, reflecting a blend of traditional Persian aesthetics with modern artistic influences during a time of cultural exchange and transformation in Iran.
Social realism: Social realism is an artistic and literary movement that focuses on depicting the everyday lives and struggles of ordinary people, often highlighting social issues and injustices. In the context of Islamic art in the 19th and 20th centuries, social realism emerged as artists sought to reflect the realities of their societies, addressing themes such as poverty, colonialism, and social change through their work.
Suleymaniye Mosque: The Suleymaniye Mosque is a prominent Ottoman imperial mosque located in Istanbul, Turkey, commissioned by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent and completed in 1557. It represents a significant example of Islamic architecture in the 16th century and showcases the aesthetic and functional innovations that characterized the peak of Ottoman architectural achievements.
The Arts of Islam Exhibition: The Arts of Islam Exhibition refers to a significant presentation of Islamic art and artifacts, aiming to showcase the rich cultural heritage and artistic achievements of Islamic civilizations. This exhibition often includes a diverse range of objects such as textiles, ceramics, metalwork, and calligraphy, reflecting the unique stylistic elements and historical contexts of various Islamic societies from the 7th century onward.
Tilework: Tilework refers to the intricate and decorative use of tiles in architectural and artistic contexts, often featuring geometric patterns, calligraphy, and vibrant colors. This technique is a hallmark of Islamic art, reflecting cultural identity, religious significance, and aesthetic values throughout various periods and regions.
Westernization: Westernization refers to the process through which societies adopt and incorporate elements of Western culture, technology, political systems, and economic practices. This term is especially relevant in the context of the Qajar Dynasty in Iran and the evolution of Islamic art in the 19th and 20th centuries, as these periods saw significant influences from Western ideologies and aesthetics that transformed traditional Islamic practices.
Zaha Hadid: Zaha Hadid was a renowned Iraqi-British architect known for her innovative and futuristic designs that often incorporated elements of Islamic art and architecture. Her work challenged traditional architectural norms through the use of dynamic forms, fluid lines, and a strong emphasis on technology and materials, making her a significant figure in contemporary architecture in the context of 19th and 20th-century Islamic art.