In this two day course, participants will engage with various forms of artistic expressions that have developed in Muslim societies. After providing an historical overview, the course will highlight issues facing contemporary Muslim societies as they grapple with the aesthetic impacts of modernity and seek to formulate appropriate artistic expressions for today.

Sessions will reflect upon the relationship of art and religion, including issues of artistic patronage, philosophical and legal perspectives on artistic production. Selected artistic genres such as painting, architecture and calligraphy will be explored. In addition, the course will include a museum visit and a participatory workshop.