The International Day of Islamic Art is a special day established in the modern cultural calendar to recognize the contribution of Islamic arts to world heritage, promote their appreciation and encourage cultural dialogue. Proclaimed by the UNESCO General Conference, this day is observed annually on November 18. It aims to highlight the artistic legacy of Islamic civilization while fostering cultural rapprochement and strengthening tolerance and dialogue among peoples.

^{Islamic Arts (Kültür Portalı)}

Adoption of the International Day of Islamic Art

The historical foundation of the International Day of Islamic Art is based on the extensive contributions of Islamic civilization to the field of art. Within this framework, various disciplines such as architecture, calligraphy, illumination, miniature painting, ceramics and textile arts are promoted both within the Islamic world and internationally.

The proposal to proclaim 18 November as the International Day of Islamic Art was prepared by Bahrain and examined during the 205th session of the UNESCO Executive Board (205 EX/31). After reviewing the relevant documents, the Executive Board approved the proposal and recommended that the matter be included on the agenda of the 40th session of the UNESCO General Conference.

The International Day of Islamic Art was officially adopted during the 40th session of the UNESCO General Conference, held from 12 to 27 November 2019. The Conference examined document 40 C/26 prepared by the UNESCO Culture Commission (CLT) and recognized the role of Islamic arts in the preservation and dissemination of human civilization and culture.^【1】 

The decision text emphasized the potential of art to promote cultural rapprochement and strengthen dialogue and tolerance among peoples. Accordingly, 18 November was proclaimed as the International Day of Islamic Art. UNESCO invites Member States, intergovernmental organizations and civil society organizations to organize activities aimed at disseminating knowledge, sharing experiences and safeguarding heritage related to Islamic arts. Furthermore, the Director-General was requested to encourage the celebration of this day annually on 18 November and to invite Member States to provide financial support for promoting and commemorating this international day.

This decision envisions the implementation of the International Day of Islamic Art as a means of preserving cultural heritage and enhancing the international visibility of Islamic arts. The day is observed through cultural events as well as educational and artistic programs.

Scope and Objectives

The International Day of Islamic Art aims to highlight the significance of Islamic arts within the world’s cultural heritage and to raise awareness of their preservation. The day focuses on fostering dialogue and tolerance by promoting cultural rapprochement among different peoples. Governments and civil society organizations are encouraged to engage in knowledge exchange and experience sharing concerning Islamic arts. Educational and awareness programs are organized through UNESCO and its Member States. Financial and institutional support is provided at the international level for the protection of cultural heritage. In this context, the International Day of Islamic Art goes beyond being merely a day of celebration, contributing to the planning and implementation of sustainable initiatives in the fields of Islamic art and cultural heritage.

^{Islamic Artworks (Anadolu Ajansı)}

Cultural and Educational Activities

The International Day of Islamic Art is not limited to the exhibition of artworks but also has an impact on research and education. Universities and research centers conduct academic studies on the historical development, techniques and aesthetic features of Islamic arts. To enhance public access to art, museum tours, workshops, interactive educational programs and digital exhibitions and platforms are organized. Events are held by museums, universities, cultural centers and art institutions in the form of exhibitions, conferences, seminars and workshops. Within this scope, tangible and intangible works such as manuscripts, miniatures, mosque and madrasa architecture, carpet and textile arts, as well as metal and wood craftsmanship, are highlighted.

Artistic Fields and Their Significance

Throughout history, Islamic arts have combined aesthetic and functional values. Calligraphy has enabled the aesthetic transmission of sacred texts, while miniature and illumination works represent the visual expression of cultural narratives. Architectural works -seen in mosques, madrasas and palaces- present both functional and aesthetic unity through detailed ornamentation. Textile, ceramic, metal and wood crafts illustrate the connection between everyday life and art.

^{Explanation of Islamic Arts (Diyanet TV)}

International Impact and Participation

The International Day of Islamic Art functions as a platform that strengthens cultural dialogue on a global scale. Different cultures gain the opportunity to recognize the historical context and universal values of Islamic arts, thereby encouraging the preservation and sharing of cultural heritage. Modern digital media and social platforms enhance the international visibility of the day and reinforce the interest of younger generations in Islamic arts. Participation is ensured by Member States, intergovernmental organizations, civil society organizations, museums and educational institutions. Participants aim to enhance knowledge sharing and cultural interaction by organizing events covering various fields of Islamic art. The celebration of the day includes both the preservation of historical artifacts and the promotion of Islamic aesthetics in contemporary artistic production.

Islamic Arts

Islamic art is defined as an artistic discipline that reflects the historical interaction between aesthetic values and social and religious beliefs. Since primitive societies, art has emerged as a reflection of social life and cultural values, connected with religious and mystical beliefs. In Islamic art, formal and symbolic expressions are emphasized; religious themes and the stories in the Qur’an constitute the main references of artistic expression. However, this expression is realized not through direct textual representation but through aesthetic and interpretive means. Islamic artists regarded artistic creation as a form of worship, associating the concept of beauty absolutely with God and the sacred texts. This approach strengthened the permanence of Islamic art and its connection with social values. Art, through both its aesthetic and cultural functions, contributed to the development of social consciousness, allowing traditions, moral values and social norms to be transmitted from generation to generation through artistic forms. Islamic arts have manifested themselves through various disciplines:

• Architecture: Structures such as mosques, madrasas, tombs and palaces were constructed for both functional and aesthetic purposes. Domes, minarets, arches and decorative elements are prominent features in architecture.
• Calligraphy: Texts created through the aesthetic arrangement of Arabic letters adorn Qur’anic manuscripts, providing both readability and visual beauty.
• Miniature Painting: The depiction of religious, historical and literary subjects through small-scale paintings characterized by fine details and rich color use.
• Ceramic and Tile Art: Tiles used in wall panels, domes and floor decorations highlight decorative aesthetics through geometric and floral motifs.
• Ornamentation: Geometric patterns, vegetal motifs and stylized figures enhance the aesthetic value of spaces while expressing religious themes indirectly.
• Jewelry and Metalwork: Objects crafted from silver, gold and bronze are designed for both daily use and religious purposes.
• Woodworking and Furniture Art: Carvings and decorative elements on buildings and objects convey aesthetic value and support cultural expression.
• Textiles: Carpets, kilims and fabric decorations reflect social and religious narratives through patterns and motifs.

^{An Example of Islamic Arts: Calligraphy (UNESCO)}