Although it seems that Arab presence in America is recent, Dr. Hussein Rashid would argue to the contrary. In his lecture, “Everyday Art: the Islamic Contribution on American Arts,” Rashid argues that America has a long tradition of Islamic influence in art and culture.
Rashid’s lecture Thursday afternoon focused around the portrayal and significance of Islam in architecture, graphic art, literary art, television and music.
Fatima Hassan Ali, public relations for Aga Khan Council of Northern Texas, explained that the purpose of these lectures is to “engage” and “educate” non-Muslim audiences about Islamic topics.
“[Islamic influences in art] are political statements . . . an expression of multiple identities, of being American and of being Muslim. Being Muslim-American is not a disconnect, but rather a long and rich tradition,” Rashid said.
In architecture, Rashid pointed out several examples of American buildings that possess Islamic motifs, including churches, temples, movie theaters and even the Twin Towers.
Graphic art, specifically graphic novels, are beginning to mainstream characters of Muslim heritage.
via Islamic traditions influence American architecture, culture, says speaker – Daily Campus – News.
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