Author(s)

ARWA A. ALGHAMDI

Abstract

Visuals influence community practices in celebrating holidays that lead to global recognition. The modern Islamic celebrations such as Ramadan, Hajj, and Eid have been influenced by many factors such as the Islamic doctrine, Islamic architecture, art, and local cultures. As a result, Islamic holidays are not necessarily tied to a specific theme or iconography and are subject to different regional interpretations, which has led to a lack of international uniformity. This research aims to identify the significance of visual representation in Islamic holidays. A descriptive and quantitative analytical approach was used as a method of investigation. An artistic/embodied practice was used by observing and engaging in a “Make a Lantern” event that gathers family members to create Ramadan decorations in addition to a survey that received over 50 individual responses that investigate the visual traditions and their impact. The results show that there are three main areas that emphasize on the importance of visuals for Islamic celebrations: building one’s identity, fighting Islamophobia, and creating opportunities for artists and designers. The researcher recommends that governmental and private entities should invest-in and encourage their local citizens to highlight their culture through artistic visual creations that connect Muslims’ religious practices to their culture and excite innovation and creativity to benefit the local economy and enhance Islamic tourism. This research may benefit the arts and crafts industry and create opportunities for designers and artists.

Keywords

Islamic celebrations, holiday visuals, Islamic art, religious branding, heritage preservation