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LECTURE
Where Society, Religion and Politics Mix with Art
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Summary
Marie-Claire Wolf is an art historian and expert with a special interest in the development of art in Islamic countries and western misconceptions of this art.
First, according to her, we must look beyond the imposing architectural forms that are palaces and mosques. We also have to look beyond the prohibited representation of the human figure. In fact, what appears is an abundant contemporary creation in Islamic countries unknown to the western public.
Second, she underlines how women, after being for so long away from artistic and cultural spheres, are becoming artists with original and vital creations – much more so than men.
Third, she draws a parallel between the importance of religion and of artistic creation in western society before the Renaissance, Reform and the French Revolution. We can see that in today’s Muslim society, the religious dogma is still very strong influencing artistic creation.
Finally, she draws the conclusion that the conflict between the sacred and the secular will have to be resolved by more individual and artistic freedom.
Ali Paknezhad
Talk of November 15th, 2007 by Marie-Claire Wolf: Islamic Art: At the crossroad of art, politics, religion and human rights (in French).
Opening Hours:
Tue-Friday 11am - 7pm
Sat & Sun: 12pm - 6pm
