The Art of Islamic Pattern
Edinburgh Festival (August 2010)

Geometry

Geometry is one of the three distinct disciplines that underpins Islamic art (the other two being Calligraphy and Arabesque). Using the traditional tools of compass and straight edge we will explore a range of classic Islamic designs and investigate the different systems of proportion, consider the role of symbolism. I will show contextual slides in the morning and introduce Islamic arts. We will then spend the morning working through some simple geometric patterns on paper.
 
Arabesque
Islimi (Arabesque), is one of the three distinct disciplines that underpins Islamic art (the other two being Calligraphy and Geometry). Islimi designs are biomorphic, floral patterns representing the underlying order and unity of nature; they are evident throughout the artwork of various cultures within the Islamic world from Morocco to Malaysia. There are a variety of different styles of Islimi within Islamic art but they all follow the same archetypal principals. This practical module is an introduction to the various families of motifs and styles and their historic origins and symbolism. We will study traditional composition, underlying rhythmic structures and traditional application techniques.

• Weekend workshop:       Saturday 28th & Sunday 29th August 2010             
  
• Location:                               Edinburgh Central Mosque, 50 Potterrow, EH8 9BT                   
  
• Contact:                                events@islamfestival.com