About
A celebration of skill, heritage, and devotion, In Praise of the Artisan explores the lives and craft of master artisans across the Islamic world. From the rhythmic clatter of looms weaving intricate Songket in Malaysia to the delicate carving of geometric patterns in Cairene woodwork, the film immerses viewers in the enduring traditions of Islamic craftsmanship across seven different countries.
Through intimate storytelling, the documentary captures not only the techniques passed down through generations but also the philosophy that elevates these crafts beyond mere labour, transforming them into acts of faith, cultural memory, and artistic excellence. At a time when mass production threatens these ancient skills, In Praise of the Artisan offers a poignant reflection on the artisans’ resilience and their vital role in preserving beauty and meaning in a rapidly changing world.
Q&A with Director, Yasin Salazar, and Executive Producer, Dr. Idries Trevathan, to follow.
Key Information
Who is this lecture for?
All are welcome.
How do I attend?
This lecture will take place in person at The King’s Foundation: School of Traditional Arts, 19-22 Charlotte Road, London EC2A 3SG
Please note this lecture will not be recorded.
What days/times do I attend?
Wednesday, 29 October 2025, 18:30 – 20:30
FAQs
Do you offer concessions?
Yes, we offer concessions for Seniors/60+, full-time students and people who are unemployed/in receipt of benefits.
Concessions cannot be applied in retrospect. To receive a concession, please apply via our online form. We will then send you a discount code to use when booking your space.
Terms & Conditions
The School reserves the right to discontinue or suspend a Lecture up to fourteen (14) calendar days before the advertised start date. This lecture requires a minimum number of enrolments to run.
What if I need to cancel or change my booking?
No refunds or cancellations, unless cancelled by the School.
Our normal terms and conditions apply.
Biography
Yasin Salazar
Yasin Salazar is an award-winning documentary filmmaker with over 20 years of experience capturing stories that honour tradition, craftsmanship, and cultural memory. His latest project, In Praise of the Artisan, is the result of years spent travelling across the Islamic world, working closely with master craftspeople to document skills and philosophies that are often overlooked or at risk of disappearing.
Yasin’s work is grounded in the belief that documentary film can build bridges between past and present, between cultures, and between people. His approach is intimate and respectful, always led by the voices of those whose stories he helps bring to the screen.
In In Praise of the Artisan, Yasin invites us to slow down and look more closely at the hands that shape beauty, meaning, and heritage. He hopes the film sparks reflection, conversation, and a renewed appreciation for the human spirit expressed through craft.
Dr. Idries Trevathan
Dr. Idries Trevathan is the Executive Producer of the film “In Praise of the Artisan”. He is Chief Curator and Islamic Art specialist at the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (known as ITHRA) in Dhahran. Since its opening in 2018, Idries has established ITHRA as a major destination for Islamic arts and culture through establishing its collection, curating major exhibitions and organising international conferences. Idries received his BA undergraduate degree in Art Conservation Studies at the City & Guilds of London Art School (2006), his MPhil (2013) and PhD (2018) in Islamic Art from the King’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts in London.
He has written and edited several books including Colour, Light and Wonder in Islamic Art (Saqi Books, London 2020), Mosque: Approaches to Art and Architecture (Routledge, London 2024), The Art of Orientation: An Exploration of the Mosque through Objects (Hirmer, New York 2020) as well as Hijrah; In the Footsteps of the Prophet (Hirmer, New York 2022) which is due to be translated into many languages.
