A Study of Words and Concepts Related to the Creation of Mental Images in Architecture from Three Islamic Wisdoms to the Present

Document Type : Original Article

Author

universityof kerman

Abstract

Creating mental image is an important part in arts process. This includes both artistic and functional concepts. In this regard, two questions are proposed: which aspects express creating mental image in architecture, specifically Iranian architecture? What changes have taken place in its related concepts comparing the past?
The aim of this study is to explain the aspects which are effective in creating mental image. Hence, the aspects which are distinct in the creation of mental image in architecture rather than other artistic fields are under consideration. To fulfill this aim, relevant words and concepts are focused and the considered features are studied and determined by analyzing and comparing the meanings of the words. Thus, the words ‘Imagination’ and ‘notion’ have been deeply explored based on three wisdoms: hikmat-i al-Mashriqiya, hikmat-i Ishraq, hikmat-i muta‘aliya. Afterwards, ‘mental imagery’ in Persian contemporary literature and cognitive philosophy is analyzed. This word contains the present aspects of creating mental image.
The findings suggest that the purpose of creating mental image (based on imagination) had been to separate from materialistic world. Of course, this subject (based on notion) did not mean ignoring the materialistic and functional aspects of architecture. Nevertheless, meaning has priority over material. Regarding mental imagery, we should say that it originates from human mind and the created image has two characteristics, i.e., visual and non-visual, which interrelate with each other and do not necessarily have priority over one another and their root is in materialistic world.

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References

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