2026 DLIVCC

Islamic art & architecture for retirees

Introduction to Islamic Art 2:

From the Umayyads to the Ottomans

  • Starts March 19 (runs online for 6 consecutive Thursdays)
  • 10:00-11:15 am EST/3:00-4:15 pm GMT

This course introduces students to the art and architecture of the Islamic world in a chronological format. Through lecture and discussion, we will tackle large developments in Islamic art. Each week will provide a broad overview of major dynasties starting with the Late Antique World (Western Rome, Sasanian, South Arabia), and continuing to the Age of the Great Caliphs, the Late Medieval Eastern Mediterranean, the Late Medieval North and West Africa and the Iberian Peninsula, the “Gunpowder Empires” (Ottoman, Mughal, and Safavid), and the late Ottoman Period. Perfect for novices and art lovers alike. The class will adjust to participants’ individual interests as well as provide a general overview.

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    Course Fee

    £ 80

    Early Bird Rate (register before 15 December)

    £ 120

    Regular Rate

    £ 150

    Pay It Forward (adds a £30 donation to our scholarship fund)



    Islamic art & architecture for retirees

    These online courses invite retirees to explore the art and architecture of the Islamic world through an engaging and inclusive learning experience. Participants are encouraged to ask questions, share ideas, and contribute to discussions that make complex topics approachable and enjoyable. Classes introduce major themes, myths, and historical developments in Islamic art, highlighting the diversity of cultures, materials, and artistic traditions that have shaped the field. Designed for intellectual curiosity and community, these courses foster lifelong learning in a welcoming online environment.

    Meet Your Instructor

    Dr. Sarah Slingluff is a dedicated and engaging educator who brings warmth, clarity, and curiosity to every classroom she leads. Specializing in Islamic art and architecture, she encourages students to think critically about global artistic traditions and the cultural stories they tell. Her teaching style blends accessible scholarship with open discussion, creating a welcoming environment where learners of all backgrounds feel comfortable exploring complex ideas. Drawing on years of research and teaching experience, she emphasizes visual analysis, historical context, and the joy of discovery.

    Whether teaching university students or lifelong learners, Dr. Slingluff inspires her classes to see art as a bridge between people, histories, and perspectives. Dr. Slingluff currently teaches at the University of Maryland where she is a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of Art History and Archaeology. Prior to this, she worked at the Walters Art Museum in Baltimore, Maryland. She has previously taught adult education at the Renaissance Program for Notre Dame University of Maryland.

    Questions? info@digitallabivcc.com

    The Digital Lab for Islamic Visual Culture & Collections (DLIVCC) is a purpose-driven startup in Edinburgh, Scotland. We provide accurate information about the art, architecture, and cultural heritage of global Islamic civilisation to wide public audiences. Founding Director and Principal Consultant Dr. Glaire Anderson (PhD, MIT, Aga Khan Program for Islamic Architecture) is an expert in medieval Islamic art, architecture, and history. She is Senior Lecturer in Islamic Art in the School of History of Art, Edinburgh College of Art at the University of Edinburgh.