Material Culture of the UAE
Spring 2016
Research Paper – ePortfolio assignment 15%
Emirati Material Culture in transition: symbolism & Identity
Students will contextualize their research in this paper, after 2 museum visits and participating in a class discussion about how material culture in the UAE has changed.
Students are required to research, analyze and discuss the historical and contemporary material culture of the UAE and articulate their opinion on changes and developments.
Background research includes your project work and you also need to research modern Emirati designers and their work. See if you can contact any and interview them about their process and inspiration? Check out the instagram resource list that was posted on blackboard.
Essay framework.
Introduction:
What do we mean by material culture, what can it tell us about a society?
Introduce the essay topic and explain how you will address it.
(Historical)
Traditional:
In the context of the UAE – what do we mean by ‘traditional’ material culture. What time period does it generally refer to?
Discuss at least 2 specific examples (with illustrations). What role did these objects play in society.
Contemporary:
Does the UAE have a distinctive contemporary material culture?
What items would you identify as being important? Why?
What is their role in contemporary Emirati society?
(Analysis)
Reinterpretation: How are the new generation of Emirati designers integrating their heritage into their designs. Discuss the work of at least one designer.
Evaluate the class group discussion – (what was discussed – themes, different view points, globalization, identity. )
Discuss changes and transitions (changes in meaning, role, symbolism, material, and changes in the objects themselves)
Research, analyze and discuss the historical and contemporary material culture of the U.A.E. and articulate their opinion on changes and developments.
Recognize distinct regional and local designs, elements, materials and objects and trace the historical development of regional material culture.
Looking for the best essay writer? Click below to have a customized paper written as per your requirements.
