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The art of heritage
In the third conversation of the series at the interface of “Citizenship, Identity & Religion” which was moderated by Dr. Amyn Sajoo, architect Farouk Noormohamed engaged with the conception of art as a cultural implication. Showcasing the importance of both modern and traditional art, Farouk explained that within architecture, “heritage is translated into a built form taking into consideration several components including utility, context and time.”
Examining his own thought provoking work at the Al-Azhar Park, the Aga Khan Academy in Mombasa, the Aga Khan University in Karachi, the Ismaili Centre of Dushanbe as well as various private properties in Vancouver – Farouk explained the high value of heritage. More specifically he noted the feature of longevity and humility through craftsmanship versus modern machinery. In doing so he provided a unique perspective of art and identity by explaining “we shape our buildings and they shape us.”
The event concluded with a thought provoking question and answer session. Attendees included members of Vancouver’s architectural and academic community, youth, members of the Ismaili Council for British Columbia, as well as the Jamat.
