Islamic Art & Architecture
Explore the cultural synthesis, craftsmanship, and structural heritage of Malabar.
Welcome back, Scholar.
You are currently working on Day 1 of the track.
Day 1: Arrival & Cultural Synthesis
Theory
- Arab Trade Connections: The genesis of Islam in Kerala via maritime routes.
- Cultural Synthesis: How indigenous Kerala traditions merged with Islamic architectural requirements.
Practical Task
Visual Essay Outline
Create a visual timeline mapping the earliest Malabar mosques, highlighting their foundational dates and original primary materials.
Daily Submissions
Complete the following actions to unlock Day 2.
Day 2: Features of Malabar Islamic Art
Theory
- Structural Deviations: The deliberate absence of domes and minarets in traditional Kerala mosques.
- Temple Influence: Analyzing the direct architectural borrowing from Kerala Hindu temple structures.
Practical Task
Comparative Sketching
Draw a side-by-side analytical sketch of a traditional Middle Eastern mosque vs. a Kerala-style mosque, labeling key differences.
Daily Submissions
Complete the following actions to unlock Day 3.
Day 3: Climate & Materials
Theory
- Monsoon-Friendly Architecture: How extreme weather dictated structural choices like steeply pitched roofs.
- Laterite & Timber: The primary building blocks of Malabar heritage.
Practical Task
Material Study & 3D Modeling
Build a simple 3D paper/cardboard model focusing specifically on the sloping roof truss system unique to Malabar.
Daily Submissions
Complete the following actions to unlock Day 4.
Day 4: Woodwork & Craftsmanship
Theory
- Mastery of Wood: The critical role of timber in architecture, replacing stone carving.
- The Minbar: The craftsmanship of the stepped pulpit unique to Kerala mosques.
Practical Task
Motif Design Drafting
Hand-draft a detailed design of a carved wooden panel incorporating traditional geometric or floral elements.
Daily Submissions
Complete the following actions to unlock Day 5.
Day 5: Calligraphy & Arabi-Malayalam
Theory
- Arabi-Malayalam Script: Writing Malayalam using Arabic script for literature and trade.
- Calligraphy: Local adaptations of Arabic calligraphy carved into wood and laterite.
Practical Task
Calligraphy Practice
Recreate 3 short phrases integrating traditional Arabic calligraphy styles within Malabar grid proportions.
Daily Submissions
Complete the following actions to unlock Day 6.
Day 6: Pre-Field Visit Preparation
Theory
- Methodology: How to conduct measured drawings and accurate observational photography on-site.
- Ethical Documentation: Approaching heritage sites with respect and academic rigor.
Practical Task
Field-Study Checklist
Create a comprehensive Field-Study Checklist and an interview questionnaire for site caretakers or local historians.
Daily Submissions
Complete the following actions to unlock Day 7.
Day 7: Field Visit
Site Briefing
Visit your assigned heritage site. Focus your observation on:
- Structural foundations and timber joinery.
- Signs of material degradation or modern renovation.
Practical Task
On-Site Documentation
Capture key structural photos, draft rough layout sketches, and compile your raw field notes. Upload them as a batch.
Data Repository Submission
Upload multiple site images and your field notes to unlock Day 8.
Day 8: Spatial Layouts
Theory
- The Social Epicenter: The mosque as a community hub.
- Spatial Flow: Analyzing movement from the ablution tank (Haud) to the inner sanctum.
Practical Task
Plan Drafting
Using field data, draft a basic floor plan (measured drawing) of the site. Ensure proportional accuracy.
Daily Submissions
Complete the following actions to unlock Day 9.
Day 9: Conservation Challenges
Analytical Report
Timber and laterite structures are vulnerable. Evaluate modern renovations vs. heritage preservation. Write a comprehensive conservation assessment.
Finalize Report
Submit your report to complete Phase 2. (Min 200 words required)
Day 10: Project Ideation & Peer Review
Activity
- Structuring a Portfolio: Compiling sketches, notes, and reports into a cohesive deck.
- Constructive Criticism: Giving and receiving professional feedback.
Practical Task
Double-Blind Peer Review
Upload your draft. Then, review an assigned peer's draft and provide actionable feedback.
Daily Submissions
Complete ALL three actions to unlock Day 11.
Day 11: Final Project Assembly
Apply Feedback & Finalize
Apply the feedback received. Finalize all CAD drawings, sketches, and written reports into a cohesive, branded presentation deck (PDF format).
Final Project Submission
Upload your final PDF to lock in your project score and proceed to the Viva.
Day 12: Executive Presentation & Viva Voce
The Final Step
Deliver a 10-minute presentation of your final project to the mentor panel, defending your design choices. Once completed, mark your Viva as complete to graduate.