In a world where modernity pushes forth our collective systems at stifling speeds, art exists as rare moments of reflection, commenting on where we are, where we came from and where we are headed.
The Muslim world has a rich cultural and artistic history and a somewhat turbulent present. Rapid change has taken its toll on monuments of the past. One third of the UNESCO World Heritage sites are located in the Muslim world. The Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) is working towards revitalizing ancient monuments from the rubble and dust of centuries gone by, through interventions focused on the physical, social and economic revitalization of historic sites in the Muslim world.
As part of one of the AKTC’s major programs, the McCord museum is hosting the Historic Cities exhibition where five cultural restoration projects are being showcased.
In Cairo, acres of rubble and garbage have been transformed into a green parkway open to the whole community. In Kabul, old monuments are being restored and act as beacons of hope for a war torn population.
The rejuvenation projects give local men and women a common goal.
“A rising tide lifts all boats,” said Iqbal Meshji, a member of the Ismaili Volunteers Corps. Meshji believes cultural rejuvenation is not a luxury, as it is so often thought of, but an asset.
“These historic monuments are indelibly part and parcel to the new industry’s potential for generations to come,” said Meshji. “It gives them hope, with that the possibility of the intangible becomes possible.”
The restoration projects partner with local governments in an effort to raise the quality of life and cultural pride of not only the Muslim population, but all nearby residents.
“It’s not about how pretty the building is, but about the site in its environment. The projects all improve the quality of life to the most marginal in society,” said Alnassir Merali, another Ismaili volunteer. A typical example of what Merali is referring to is Hamayan’s Tomb, which predates the Taj Mahal by 100 years. Surrounded only by dirt and mud for years, the restoration projection has incorporated a public garden that everyone can enjoy around the mausoleum.
Beyond architecture, the AKTC is also interested in promoting sustainable development by partnering public and private institutions. One example is the ‘Bags to Bricks Project’, where old plastic bags are pressed into bricks that are used in roads and sidewalks. In Kenya, plastic bags have become such a problem that the government has officially banned them.
The Historic Cities exhibit is inspiring in that it shows how art and history can act as a catalyst for socio-economic improvement and self-realization. Cultures are united by their symbols, and an investment in these symbols can help forge respectful development. Working to preserve monuments of the past and the establishment of beautiful public spaces can counter balance to the rapid change brought on by politics, conflict and exploitation.
The AKTC has also organized the World Partnership Walk on May 25 at Park Mont-Royal. The charity walk’s proceeds will go to the impoverished. For more information go to www.worldpartnershipwalk.com.
The Historic Cities Exhibition runs at the McCord Museum until April 14.
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