New Islamic Art Exhibits Planned to Counter Islam’s Militant Image...
(Reuters) — Art from the Islamic world will be shown in the heart of the British Museum, instead of on the sidelines, in two new galleries funded by a Malaysian foundation which hopes to offset the image created by Islamic militants. The museum, which houses one of the world’s largest collections of art and artefacts, said on Thursday it plans to open two new galleries in its south wing devoted to its extensive collection of art from the Islamic world. Until now works from the collection have been displayed in a gallery tucked away on the north side of the massive building, a long walk from the main entrance. The two new galleries, which will complement the existing...
Exhibit Showcases Islamic Gift-Giving Tradition...
November 23, 2011 Greg Flakus | Houston, Texas Islam has spread to cultures and regions far beyond its birthplace on the Arabian peninsula. Among its traditions is the value placed on gift giving These gifts, from over the centuries, are works of art which often bear motifs associated with Islam. That Muslim tradition of gift giving is the focus of an exhibit at the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston. The theme of the exhibit, which bears works ranging from the 8th to the 19th centuries, is in its title: “Gifts of the Sultan: The Art of Giving at the Islamic Courts.” Curator Francesca Leoni says every piece on display reflects that concept. “This exhibition uses gift exchange...