The elegantly designed museum was
opened not long ago as the first North American home for the culture,
arts, and artifacts of Muslim civilizations. An exciting contribution
to Toronto and Canadian life! It's an initiative of the Aga Khan
Trust for Culture, a part of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN),
a non-denominational organization working to improve living
conditions in the developing world.
His
Highness the Aga Khan is the 49th hereditary Imam (Spiritual Leader)
of the Shia Ismaili Muslims. In Islam’s ethical tradition,
religious leaders not only interpret the faith but also have a
responsibility to help improve the quality of life in their community
and in the societies amongst which they live. For His Highness, this
has meant a deep engagement with development for over fifty years
through the agencies of the AKDN. [from the website]
In the museum's main floor gallery are
items from its permanent collections ―
a variety of manuscripts, ceramics, metal work, architectural
design details, and other objects. Taking a regular gallery tour
enriches the experience.
 |
| (... camel sighting ...) |
Precious ceramics are displayed in the
main floor gallery as well as in the Bellerive Room.
You can use your camera on the main
floor and on the extensive grounds. Changing supplementary
exhibitions are featured on the
second floor, for example
in September 2015, the fascinating "A Thirst for Riches:
Carpets from the East in Paintings of the West" (carpets to drool over but not photograph) and a second
exhibit of contemporary art in various forms including
photography, from Sharjah (United Arab Emirates).
The illustrated calligraphy is
stunning.
Historical and mythological figures.
Bowl crafted from a coconut shell!
The museum is a learning centre as
well; lectures, films, music, performances, and workshops are all
part of the programming. The small gift shop has some exquisite
reproductions and books (an e-shop is now available here). I didn't try the Diwan restaurant,
open for lunch only (yummy-looking menu), but a special series of
dinner with jazz is currently popular. In the light-filled atrium is
a cafe for light snacks.
My photos do not do it justice!
©
2015
Brenda Dougall Merriman
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