Title of Thesis

Aesthetics of Design in the Art of Moroccan Woodwork as a source of inspiration for contemporary artistic applications

Supervisors

PJ Seddon

Dr PJ Maguire

Aims of Investigation

• To investigate new ways of dealing with the artistic achievements of Islamic art in the light of contemporary requirements, based on understanding the importance of promoting and developing its traditional principles.
• To explore new methods of transferring its aesthetic values to different branches of art, specifically the fine art arena.
• To produce a group of artworks supported by detailed illustrations and sufficient written material to portray the methods and results of the investigation.

Abstract

The focus of this project will be on utilizing the distinctive aesthetics and design techniques of the art of Moroccan woodwork for the production of new and original artworks. It is an attempt to explore new ways to perpetuate and develop the qualities of Islamic art, using its aesthetics as a source of creative inspiration.

I shall argue that the art form offers a sophisticated system of creating and combining design elements that can be developed, transformed, and adopted for modern artistic applications.

The project involves forming a new concept which is based on a deeper understanding of the relationship between aesthetic values as constants, and the design elements and techniques of forming patterns as variables that can be changed, developed and complied to meet the requirements and purposes of the artwork. Therefore, the work will involve finding appropriate changes and working methods to link these long-established forms with contemporary concepts of fine art. The project explores the practical application of this notion, producing two and three-dimensional artworks inspired specifically by the following aesthetics:

• The arrangement of light and shadow in Moroccan design (wooden oriels and screens).
• The harmonious relationship between static and dynamic elements in singular design patterns.
• Principles of unity in gathering different design components.
• The type of movement and changeable shape of lines in calligraphic ornamentation.

Research Questions

• What possible changes can be made to the traditional aesthetics and design techniques of Moroccan woodwork without affecting and changing its distinctive identity?
• What are the appropriate technical procedures for transforming and utilising these decorative forms in contemporary fine art applications?
• Could the intended art works suggest a modernised aspect of Islamic art and realise a meeting point between the traditional concepts of beauty and modern understandings of art?