Department of Islamic Art

M.A. in Islamic Art

The growing need for the development of a comprehensive charter of Islamic art within universities, particularly as a means of responding to the increasing influence of imported artistic traditions, is one of the primary reasons for the establishment of academic programs in Islamic Art.

In the age of globalization, characterized by increasing cultural similarities and the diminishing of cultural boundaries, nations have become increasingly interconnected and interdependent. As a result, various elements that shape the identity of a nation or civilization may be overlooked within the global system of cultural exchange. In this context, the field of art can increasingly become a platform for the adoption of forms, concepts, and artistic approaches originating from non-native, particularly Western, traditions.

Addressing the challenges associated with the dominance of imported artistic models requires academic programs that represent the foundations, values, and cultural heritage of a particular people and civilization. Such an endeavor can only be achieved when a civilization is able to articulate its ideas, beliefs, and worldview through its own artistic language and forms of expression.

With its rich intellectual foundations and longstanding cultural heritage, Islamic Art can serve as a comprehensive academic framework for the study of Islamic artistic traditions and as an effective program for students and cultural practitioners involved in the transmission and preservation of cultural heritage.

A fundamental distinction between Islamic Art and other related fields, particularly Handicrafts, lies in the close and dynamic relationship between theoretical principles and practical training within the discipline. The interaction between theory and practice plays an important role in shaping students’ intellectual outlook, character, and artistic perspective. In addition to acquiring specialized knowledge and practical skills in the various areas of Islamic Art, students develop a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical and fundamental principles underlying Iranian-Islamic art and aesthetics.

It is noteworthy that Islamic Art is taught in the art faculties of many prestigious universities around the world, while academic programs dedicated specifically to Islamic Art have a comparatively shorter history in Iran, despite the country’s longstanding identity and heritage as an Islamic civilization.

The Faculty of Art at Neyshabur University is proud to have achieved an important academic milestone by obtaining authorization to establish the Master’s program in Islamic Art.