Masjid Negara (National Mosque) was closed to non-Muslim visitors when we went (it was Friday), so we just walked up the street towards the Lake Gardens...
To the Islamic Arts Museum, which was high on my list of must-sees before I came to KL.
It is my favorite place in Malaysia, not only for the exhibits but also for the structure. The domed ceilings are beautiful and unexpected. Light and water are important elements in the structure.
The special exhibit until October 25 is called Beyond Orientalism, which shows the influence of Islamic art on the west, notably the works of Theodore Deck, William Morris, Tiffany & Co, Cartier, Matisse, Klee, and Kandinsky. The exhibit also notes the origin of the paisley design from the "boteh" motif. Just looking at the pigments used in Islamic art, it is evident that this tradition has left a mark on artists everywhere. Interesting that Islamic art and Celtic art are very similar. I'm inspired to do some decorative work.
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