978-1-4222-3442-6

97

T HE P EOPLE

Erbil, and Dahuk. The Kurds have their own traditions and cultures. One source of pride that unifies Kurds is their language. In Iraqi Kurdistan, Kurdish, rather than in Arabic, has become the official language of schools and government. T HE A RTS Islamic tradition forbids visual art in which Allah or living people are represented. As a result, throughout history Arab artists have expressed themselves through decorative art. One art form popular in Iraq is calligraphy , writing so beauti- ful that it becomes a work of art in itself. Calligraphy—often sec- tions of the Qur’an or Arab proverbs—can be used to decorate everyday items made from paper, metal, or wood. Sometimes the writing is so ornate that it is difficult to make out the exact words, and the calligraphy must be examined carefully in order to deci- pher the message. Creating intricate geometric designs, often called arabesques, is another form of Iraqi art. The artist begins with a simple geometric form, such as a square, a circle, or a polygon , then uses this form to create complex patterns. Designs can be made with tile to deco- rate walls and doorways; colorful geometric designs can also be found on household items and clothing. Similar patterns, in which simple forms can be expanded into very complex but symmetrical works of art, can be discerned in architecture, music, and poetry. Islamic architecture is another creative art form. Though the Arabs created palaces and other private buildings, the most lasting are the mosques. In Baghdad the celebrated Al-Kadhimain Mosque, built in the 16th century, has gold-capped domes and minarets rising above a courtyard. Music is an important part of life in Iraq. Singers are accompa- nied by musical instruments such as the oud, which is something