The Magnificence of Masjid Al Aqsa
Nayyab Farooq, Fairleigh Dickinson University
Artist Statement: This ceramic piece is inspired by Islam’s third sacred mosque, Masjid Al Aqsa. Masjid Al Aqsa was the first direction of prayer for the Muslims. Al Aqsa Mosque is located in Jerusalem, Palestine, and it is also sacred to Christianity and Judaism. This piece was built and glazed to communicate the mosque’s internal and external features. The outside was precisely modeled based on the delicate details of the real structure. In contrast, the inside is simpler, to represent worship and tranquility, and it maintains the red and beige-grey stone theme of the real structure. Furthermore, the intricate patterns inside the dome convey the brilliance of Islamic artists, who beautify the interior of mosques with beautiful calligraphy, mosaic, and floral art. Al Aqsa Mosque is a clear manifestation of the magnificence and intricacy of Islamic architecture. Not only do visitors feel at awe by the detail and grandeur of the physical building, but they also feel a sense of peace and calm by its spiritual essence. Most importantly, Masjid Al Aqsa represents the strive for human rights, religious freedom, and harmony throughout history and in modern day society.
Full Size Images of the Sculpture
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