Her workshop is designed to encourage students to explore their own cultural heritage and express it through art. Sharmeen Uqaili’s artmaking workshop is not only an educational experience for the students but also an opportunity for them to engage with their own cultural identities. By exploring the Islamic world’s rich cultural heritage, the students are encouraged to appreciate the beauty and diversity of different cultures.
Exploring the Art of Islamic Geometric Patterns
The art of Islamic geometric patterns has been a cornerstone of Islamic art and architecture for centuries. These intricate designs have been used in various forms of art, including textiles, ceramics, and metalwork.
The 9 students from Sunset High School and 9 students from Lassiter Early College High School were divided into small groups of three students each, with two teachers, Ms. Johnson and Mr. Johnson, accompanying them. The 2nd and 3rd floors of the Dallas Museum of Art’s (DMA) main building are located on the 2nd floor, while the galleries on the 3rd floor are accessible only to visitors who are 16 years old or older. Since the students were under 16, they used the museum’s designated elevator to access the 1st floor, where the DMA’s main entrance and a large plaza are located. Upon entering the museum, the students were greeted by the museum’s director, Dr. Rodriguez, who gave them a brief tour of the galleries on the 1st floor. The students then had the opportunity to participate in a workshop session led by a local artist, Ms. Lee, where they learned about various art historical periods and styles, including Cubism and Surrealism. Meanwhile, on the 2nd and 3rd floors, the remaining 12 students, including 3 students who were not present at the workshop session, continued to explore the galleries on their own. They had the option to engage with the museum’s interactive exhibits, participate in guided tours, or simply observe the artwork on display. The students were encouraged to take their time, ask questions, and engage with the artwork in a way that felt comfortable for them. This allowed them to develop their critical thinking and observation skills, as well as gain a deeper understanding of the artworks on display. The 12 students were accompanied by their two teachers, Ms. Johnson, who provided guidance and support throughout their exploration of the galleries.
Creating a Sense of Belonging at the Meadows Museum
The Meadows Museum, located in San Antonio, Texas, is a premier art museum that showcases an extensive collection of European art, particularly from the 12th to the 20th centuries. However, the museum’s mission extends beyond its impressive art collection, as it aims to create a sense of belonging among its visitors, particularly students.
The Meadows Museum is committed to creating a welcoming environment for students, which is reflected in its design and operations.