Explore the Rich Islamic Heritage at Shangri La Museum of Art, Culture & Design
Shangri La Museum of Art, Culture & Design is an extraordinary museum that showcases the Islamic heritage in a unique way. Located in Honolulu, Hawaii, the museum is housed in the former home of Doris Duke, which has been transformed into a vibrant cultural center that celebrates the art, culture, and design of the Islamic world.
The Origins of Shangri La Museum
The Shangri La Museum was opened to the public in 2002 after its founder, the heiress and philanthropist Doris Duke, passed away. Duke was captivated by the beauty and diversity of Islamic art and culture, which she discovered during a trip to the Middle East in the 1930s. Over the course of her life, she amassed a collection of nearly 3,500 objects, which she bequeathed to the museum upon her death.
The Collection
The collection of the Shangri La Museum is nothing short of astonishing. It includes ceramics, textiles, jewelry, metalwork, and decorative arts, among other things. The objects come from a wide variety of Islamic cultures and span more than a thousand years of history, from the 7th to the 19th centuries.
One of the highlights of the collection is the Damascus Room, which dates back to the 18th century. The room was originally part of the home of a wealthy merchant in Damascus, Syria, and it was transported to the museum piece by piece and reassembled with great care. Visitors can marvel at the intricately carved and painted wooden panels, which are adorned with scenes of daily life in Damascus.
Museum Tours and Experiences
The Shangri La Museum offers a number of tours and experiences that allow visitors to delve deeper into the rich Islamic heritage on display. The Guided Tour is a must for anyone who wants to gain a better understanding of the objects in the collection and the stories behind them. The museum also offers themed tours that focus on specific topics, such as ‘Women and the Arts of Islam’ and ‘Surfing the Collection: Highlights from Shangri La’.
For those who want to get their hands dirty, there are workshops and classes that offer hands-on experiences in traditional Islamic crafts such as calligraphy and tile making. The museum also hosts lectures, concerts, and other events that celebrate the art, culture, and design of the Islamic world.
Conclusion
The Shangri La Museum of Art, Culture & Design is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to explore the rich and diverse heritage of the Islamic world. From its stunning collection of objects to its engaging tours and experiences, the museum offers a unique and enlightening experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression. So if you find yourself in Honolulu, be sure to pay a visit to Shangri La Museum and discover the beauty and wonder of Islamic art and culture.
