The Art of Islamic Pattern                                                            A Practical Introduction 

This is a practical introduction to the principles of Islamic Pattern. Using the traditional tools of compass and straight edge we will each week re-create a beautiful pattern from a different part of the Islamic world. By working with designs of progressive complexity students develop a solid grounding in the language of symmetry in Islamic Art. As the course progresses, students are also introduced to the principles of free-hand biomorphic design (also known as Islimi/Arabesque) and learn to integrate these more fluid designs with geometric pattern. The practical work is supplemented by contextual slide lectures and each student receives a comprehensive series of handouts detailing the steps undertaken to re-create each pattern. This is so that students can practise and develop their work at home between and beyond the sessions.

The course culminates with each student creating a final piece of work using a traditional technique in a medium of their choosing. The studio space is especially well equipped and can support work in gilding, marquetry,  ceramics, stone and plaster carving. Students are advised to purchase a good quality compass (approx £20) in advance of the course. All other specialist materials are provided and included in the fee.

• The next weekly starts:    16th October for 10 weeks, Saturdays 10.30am - 1pm
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Location:                                Studio 31 Cell studios 
80-84 Wallis road 
London E9 5LW


• Course Fee:                            £300 (including materials)
• Contact:                                  islamicpattern@googlemail.com