As terrorism fears have mounted and tensions have escalated toward Muslims in the United States in recent years, the Children’s Museum of Manhattan is doing its part to help defuse the rising anxiety. Its exhibition “America to Zanzibar: Muslim Cultures Near and Far” showcases the history, art and traditions of Muslims, with the belief that education will beat back ignorance and hate every time.
Visitors hearing the sounds of instruments from around the globe in the courtyard section of the Children’s Museum of Manhattan exhibition “America to Zanzibar: Muslim cultures Near and Far.” CreditGeorge Etheredge for The New York Times
“People really want to dig in and get a better understanding from a trusted source about Muslim cultures,” said Andrew S. Ackerman, the museum’s executive director. And the earlier people are exposed to diverse cultures, the better, he said.
America to Zanzibar
Travel the world in a single museum visit! Enjoy innovative hands-on experiences and discover fascinating objects, images and information from over 50 countries.
his family-friend adventure includes plenty of opportunity to have fun while learning about our world. Children can explore ancient trade routes on a two story Indian Ocean dhow (boat) or on a camel. They’ll thrill to the excitement of a global market place as they pretend to buy, sell and trade fruit, fish, spice, ceramic, textiles, and rugs.
The exhibit environment is rich with art, architecture and design elements from across the globe. Children and adults alike will marvel at a 3D exploration of mosque architecture from the Maldives to China. Original works by emerging American Muslim artists join traditional art forms including intricately designed tiles, ornate ceramics, and complex patterned rugs. There’s even an interactive replica/interpretation of a Pakistani truck, recognized as a “moving work of art” for children to decorate.
Families will also be able to participate in an array of performances, workshops, and demonstrations. They can also compose music using an app featuring the rebana, tabla, kora, oud, ney, and ghijak, listen to stories and view objects shared by local America Muslim families and even learn how to write and say “My name is …” in 21 languages.
After creating popular exhibits on the cultures of Ancient Greece, China and Japan, the Children’s Museum is continuing its Cultural Exhibition and Programming Series with this exploration of the world’s Muslim cultures.
New York City’s First Lady Chirlane McCray speaks in support of the exhibit:
Read and View more on : http://www.cmom.org/explore/america_zanzibar