Sketchbook Entry:
I am choosing to explore Arab culture, as it exists today in my home country of Kuwait. I am most interested in the architectural decorative arts that are essential to Arab culture, drawing from the geometric designs and traditional arches that lace the city. These forms of Arab decorative arts are commonly found in mosques and homes throughout Kuwait, and exist as testaments to the rich culture of the community.
The object I am studying in this piece is maa’a sabeel, public water fountains present in all Kuwaiti neighborhoods and urban areas throughout the country. These water fountains are installed by individuals as acts of charity, signifying the strong moral code and value for community that stands as the foundation of Arab culture. What makes maa’a sabeel visually interesting and integral to Kuwaiti culture is the incorporation of Arab decorative arts into their design. Maa’a sabeel is often designed to represent symbols of Kuwaiti culture like lanterns, Arabic coffee kettles, and old Kuwaiti wood work, as well as intricately detailed with elements of Arab architecture like arches and geometric designs. This emphasis on design extends maa’a sabeel’s function as simply a water source to significant sculptures that define the city and valuable contributions to Arab decorative arts.
Works Cited
Text:
Al-Shuaibi, Athoob. “Sabeel Water Fountains.” Athoob Al-Shuaibi, 13 July 2017, www.athoob.com/blog/sabeel-water-fountains.
Images 1-3: My photography
Image 4: Al-Shuaibi, Athoob. “Sabeel Water Fountains.” Athoob Al-Shuaibi, 13 July 2017, www.athoob.com/blog/sabeel-water-fountains.
Image 5: “Laila and Majnun in School”, Folio 129 from a Khamsa (Quintet) of Nizami. Displayed in the Met.
Pen Tool, Pattern, and Color Translations:
Documentation of Hand Drawings:
Idea Board + Final Design
