Worship in the form of creating

Ceiling of Alhambra palace in Spain

I have realised that some aspects of my btech are considered as worship. I think that it is related to my btech topic requiring me to furthering my knowledge on Islam and Islamic concepts but it is related to the idea of seeking knowledge in general. I feel a connection to my research and my pieces from on a religious level, which I didn't know was possible to feel unless one was studying religion.

Studying arabesque, geometry and Arabic calligraphy in Islamic art, I have learned that these aspects are more than beautiful decoration. They represent  There is so much of depth to the designs that fill masjids, palaces, and other forms of islamic art and architecture. Calligraphy of Quranic versues seem obviously related to religious expression, but geometry and arabesque are not obvious. According to Keith Barry Critchlow, geometry and patterns in Islamic art are believed to be the "bridge to the spiritual realm".

There are many Ahadith (reported sayings of the prophet Muhammad) that deal with the topic of seeking knowledge, both Islamic and secular. One Ahadith that is reported by Abu Hurairah (a friend of prophet Muhammad) "If anyone pursues a path in search of knowledge, Allah will thenby make easy for him a path to paradise; and he who is made slow by his actions will not be speeded by his genealogy." - This being advice from the Prophet (PBUH), I understand that there is wisdom and reward in the afterlife for those who seek knowledge, but I also feel the reward in this world.

Islamic coins - piercing and soldering

Figure 3.17 - Adams, Z., (2019). Coin made from piercing and soldering.

The second technique of coin making that I thought I would try out is to pierce out the word and solder it onto a piece of plate including the outer edge of the coin. The image above shows a prototype of the Arabic coin after the words and outer edge had been soldered on. I like the way the coin has come out because of how clearly in focus the Arabic word is but was too neat to resemble a Bedouin coin.

I thought about making a mould to sand cast this piece. Sand casting for my coin will involve creating a model in metal that will then be pressed into casting sand very well. The issue I was told about that might affect some of the detail of the words was the little holes and smaller details in the writing. Apparently, sand can get stuck in the holes. Hopefully with the use of files and burs, I  will be able to open up the small spaces.

Research methodology

Figure 1.1 - McNiff, J., (2001) Flow chart, drawn by me, depicting the Action Research Methodology

Action Research Methodology
The Action Research methodology is a method of practitioner-based research that was developed by professor Jean McNiff. It is a method of research which requires the scholar to do research on themselves, which makes it a self-reflective practice. The researcher starts by developing a plan, acting according to the plan, observing the outcomes of the action taken, and reflecting on what has happened, before cycling back to the planning stage. The action research methodology results in continuous learning and growth because of its helical nature.

My plan
My plan is to study the different types of Islamic arts, in order to identify areas of interest that I can then draw inspiration from to design and create jewellery. With each piece or concept that I work on, the action research methodology will be applied. The method of execution will be to plan my piece, make the piece, recognise and document my observations, then reflect on how it links back and contributes to my research topic. Once a piece or prototype is complete, the next planning phase will be initiated.