This course is designed to introduce students to the philosophy of Miniature and Folk Art in Persia and East India from the 18th to the 21st Century. The power of narration through traditional Persia-India miniature and folk narrative art in different artifacts, like the Persian kilim/rug and miniature painting/illustration, Indian Gond art and other implements will be explored and practiced. The Persian and East Indian approach towards miniature imagery and text will also be explored. This course will place an emphasis on how visual storytelling connects life, beliefs, compassion and world view. Considering that, for Persian and East Indian cultures, visual expression and identity are tied together as collective and individual life stories. Hence for them, telling stories through colour, form, pattern, symbol and nomad has been an instrument to portray their pain and suffering as well as their love and glory for many millennia, as the region has over 5000 years of history in narrative art. The particular use of intuition with meticulous attention to detail has recorded history, culture, traditions, and the belief system of striving against forgetfulness has kept the nation concerted. The course will include research and compelling subject related practice.
- Teacher: Rozita Moini Shirazi