Islamic Geometry for Beginners: 8-fold Octagon Pattern from the Taj Mahal

A practical introduction to Islamic geometry - use a ruler compass and watercolour to create a unique piece to take home.

Learn how to draw a historical pattern from Islamic traditions. This 3-hour workshop will teach you how to design, draw and colour an 8-fold octagon pattern found at the Taj Mahal in India.

During the session, tutor Safira will show you how to create a geometric pattern template and go through the process of how to transfer it to watercolour paper.

The session will include a chance to explore watercolour painting techniques so you can create your own painting.

No prior experience is required, or if you do have some experience of Islamic geometry, this is a great way to refresh your skills or find new inspiration!

About the tutor:

Tutor Safira Ali, new to our team of tutors here at Attenborough Arts, is a visual artist and calligrapher based in Leicestershire. Her work explores geometry, Islamic illumination, and modern and Arabic calligraphy. Safira has studied Islamic geometry with the Prince’s School of Traditional Arts, Art of Islamic Pattern and Traditional Arts with the VMCTA. For the past four years she has been undertaking a traditional apprenticeship programme to learn tezhip with an Islamic illumination master in Istanbul.