Keeir Collection

The Keir Collection at the Dallas Museum of Art in Dallas, Texas is one of the most mesmerizing exciting art exhibitions I have ever had the pleasure of viewing. This collection of Islamic Art transforms each object in spiritual and cultural symbols. Dr. Sabiha Al Khemir, Senior Advisor for Islamic Art at the museum gathered a variety of textiles, books, metal jewelry, ceramics platters & bowls, paintings and even prints filled with typography. With its own diverse visual language, the Islamic culture brings forth unity through this collection. Each piece and medium of artwork has its own visual language which is illustrated by details and inscriptions of Islamic cultural images. Dr. Al Khemir brought forth enough resource and supplementary material to excite audiences and teach about the culture as a whole. Upon entering The Keir Collection Exhibition, you will find a flowing, spiritual cultural presence filling the room. The entrance appears serene and welcoming, from the inscribed gold tone statement softly reflecting off the walls to the introductions and communication with the audience. One of the highlights of this area is the two small utilitarian objects located opposite side to each other, on the east and west walls of the room. I believe the Dr. Al Khemir’s intention was to slow the audience’s pace, making them halt and think about the two objects’ placement. They are both well-lighted and centered in an acrylic box. Each piece is a collection of restored fragments that describe their own story or event. One has a swirling, entrancing movement with dark and light colors creating an animal, while the other contains a pattern design of mysterious figures. Another point of intrigue is a Wall, made of a continuance see through Islamic patterns, large enough for the audience to walk through with ease. One of the pieces of the Keir Collection I found very interesting was the carved …show more content…
The Ewer is located near the back area of the exhibition but is centered with a well-lighted source that makes it the main attraction. The Ewer is securely encased in a large acrylic box and is centered near the back of the exhibition. The rock crystal is flawless and beautified with color enamel inlay over Gold on both ends. The main feline design immediately captures a viewer’s attention through its sparkle and shinning appearance. The multiple layers of dots are masterfully created with individual designs over other designs, hidden beneath the surface. These details are so intricate and small that a magnifying glass is needed in order to see it a feline emboss …show more content…
As with this gallery and its focus on Islam, I’d like to change the way people define and think about art. I want to show a world of artwork, not just those of European or Impressionist stylings, but the hidden treasures and history. The Keir Collection Exhibition at the Dallas Museum of Art by Dr. Al Khemir was definitely a great example of how research can help shape and curate an exhibit. Even the direction Dr. Al Khemir used to display the Keir family artwork was inspiring. I now can see the value in proper lighting, complementing the work with information, and supplementing digital resources. As Dr. Al Khemir remarks about the process, “Restrain, step back and don’t give too much information,” because as a curator, one should hold back information to entice and attract our audiences into the