Agenda
Over 37 exclusive sessions in 1 week of hands-on creativity, awe-inspiring live demonstrations, and transformative discussions - all online and from the comfort of your home.
All times are in GMT. Want to convert to your local time?
Check out this time converter.
Day 01 Opening Ceremony
The Art of Intention
This talk explores the role of intention in Islamic art: why works were made, what they were meant to achieve, and the extraordinary efforts undertaken to fulfil those aims. It considers how faith, ethics, and aesthetics shaped artistic practice, revealing the personal, spiritual, and cultural motivations behind these remarkable works.
Maghrebi-Andalusian Tastir & Vegetal Patterns from Traditional Manuscripts
This hands-on workshop explores Moroccan Tastir geometric patterns and ruling in Maghrebi-Andalusian manuscripts. Using the traditional al-qisma (division) method, participants will learn step-by-step techniques to draw, ornament, paint, and apply gold leaf. Everyone will create and complete their own authentic ornamental piece on paper from start to finish.
TBC
TBC
CAFE HOUR
The Art of Fretwork: Crafting Your First Islamic Biomorphic Design
Join tutor Hassan Khaled to explore Nabati design and fretwork. In this beginner-friendly workshop, you will learn to transfer biomorphic patterns onto wood, set up a safe workspace, and cut curves using a coping saw. Participants will gain foundational hand-tool skills to create their own Islamic woodwork piece at home.
Geometry, Origami, and Molten Glass
Join glass artist Ingrid Parrington to explore casting a geometric pattern in glass. Learn how to transform a hand-drawn rosette into sculptural glass art. You will see how the pattern becomes an origami model, transitions into silicone and plaster-silica molds, and finally becomes a beautiful, kiln-fired piece of cast glass.
Casablanca to Cairo: Making Dual Pattern Tiles
DAY CLOSE REFLECTIONS
END OF DAY 01
Day 01 Opening Ceremony
The Art of Intention
This talk explores the role of intention in Islamic art: why works were made, what they were meant to achieve, and the extraordinary efforts undertaken to fulfil those aims. It considers how faith, ethics, and aesthetics shaped artistic practice, revealing the personal, spiritual, and cultural motivations behind these remarkable works.
Maghrebi-Andalusian Tastir & Vegetal Patterns from Traditional Manuscripts
This hands-on workshop explores Moroccan Tastir geometric patterns and ruling in Maghrebi-Andalusian manuscripts. Using the traditional al-qisma (division) method, participants will learn step-by-step techniques to draw, ornament, paint, and apply gold leaf. Everyone will create and complete their own authentic ornamental piece on paper from start to finish.
TBC
TBC
CAFE HOUR
The Art of Fretwork: Crafting Your First Islamic Biomorphic Design
Join tutor Hassan Khaled to explore Nabati design and fretwork. In this beginner-friendly workshop, you will learn to transfer biomorphic patterns onto wood, set up a safe workspace, and cut curves using a coping saw. Participants will gain foundational hand-tool skills to create their own Islamic woodwork piece at home.
Geometry, Origami, and Molten Glass
Join glass artist Ingrid Parrington to explore casting a geometric pattern in glass. Learn how to transform a hand-drawn rosette into sculptural glass art. You will see how the pattern becomes an origami model, transitions into silicone and plaster-silica molds, and finally becomes a beautiful, kiln-fired piece of cast glass.
Casablanca to Cairo: Making Dual Pattern Tiles
DAY CLOSE REFLECTIONS
END OF DAY 01
DAY 02 WELCOME
Sketching 5 Domes from Islamic Architecture
Symbolism of Cypress Trees and Blossoms
Alifya will present on the rich symbolism of cypress trees, blossoms, and gold. Following the presentation, she will guide participants through a practical demonstration, teaching them how to apply gold to a pre-drawn cypress design. This workshop beautifully blends artistic technique with an exploration of spiritual meaning.
Analysing an Islamic Geometric Pattern from Tubat Khatun
CAFE HOUR
The Art of Remembrance (Dhikr): Writing the Name of Allah in Almoravid Script
This step-by-step workshop teaches you how to compose the Name of Allah (swt) in a circular arrangement inspired by traditional Almoravid Islamic Calligraphy to visually represent the spiritual impact of remembrance, using the circle to symbolise continuous repetition and the Infinite, boundless nature of the Divine.
Introduction to Nastaliq Script
Introduction to Diwani script: From a Simple Word to a Circular Composition
DAY CLOSE REFLECTIONS
END OF DAY 02
DAY 02 WELCOME
Sketching 5 Domes from Islamic Architecture
Symbolism of Cypress Trees and Blossoms
Alifya will present on the rich symbolism of cypress trees, blossoms, and gold. Following the presentation, she will guide participants through a practical demonstration, teaching them how to apply gold to a pre-drawn cypress design. This workshop beautifully blends artistic technique with an exploration of spiritual meaning.
Analysing an Islamic Geometric Pattern from Tubat Khatun
CAFE HOUR
The Art of Remembrance (Dhikr): Writing the Name of Allah in Almoravid Script
This step-by-step workshop teaches you how to compose the Name of Allah (swt) in a circular arrangement inspired by traditional Almoravid Islamic Calligraphy to visually represent the spiritual impact of remembrance, using the circle to symbolise continuous repetition and the Infinite, boundless nature of the Divine.
Introduction to Nastaliq Script
Introduction to Diwani Script: From a Simple Word to a Circular Composition
DAY CLOSE REFLECTIONS
END OF DAY 02
DAY 03 WELCOME
Shading Floral Motifs Inspired by Persianate and Ottoman Ornamentation
Charlotte is an artist inspired by nature, geometry, and the rich ornamental traditions of Persianate and Ottoman art. In this workshop, she will guide you step-by-step through designing, drawing, and colouring your own radial floral motif. You will learn simple shading techniques to achieve satisfying depth and refinement.
Drawing Islamic Geometric Patterns Using Regular Grid Paper
CAFE HOUR
Mastering Gouache: An Introduction to the Medium
Join Aziza for an intimate gouache masterclass tracing her personal artistic journey. Discover the medium’s unique properties through color mixing, material charts, and texture comparisons. Aziza will then guide you step-by-step through a live painting demonstration, sharing the soulful techniques and insights that shaped her passion for this vibrant art.
Re-Creating the Sovereign Ottoman Seal & Signature
This session explores the history and artistry of the Tughra, the highly stylized calligraphic monogram of the Ottoman Empire. Serving as the sovereign's official seal and signature, this distinctive emblem was custom-designed for every individual sultan. The workshop features an insightful live demonstration revealing how these intricate imperial marks were drawn.
Creating a Kufi Murabba Border Composition
Bassem will demonstrate how to write the Arabic alphabet in Kufi Murabba using AutoCAD. Participants will use a provided template to copy and practice the letterforms. The session concludes with a guide on creating calligraphic compositions alongside real-world and personal examples of this unique geometric script.
DAY CLOSE REFLECTIONS
END OF DAY 03
DAY 03 WELCOME
Shading Floral Motifs Inspired by Persianate and Ottoman Ornamentation
Charlotte is an artist inspired by nature, geometry, and the rich ornamental traditions of Persianate and Ottoman art. In this workshop, she will guide you step-by-step through designing, drawing, and colouring your own radial floral motif. You will learn simple shading techniques to achieve satisfying depth and refinement.
Drawing Islamic Geometric Patterns Using Regular Grid Paper
CAFE HOUR
Mastering Gouache: An Introduction to the Medium
Join Aziza for an intimate gouache masterclass tracing her personal artistic journey. Discover the medium’s unique properties through color mixing, material charts, and texture comparisons. Aziza will then guide you step-by-step through a live painting demonstration, sharing the soulful techniques and insights that shaped her passion for this vibrant art.
Re-Creating the Sovereign Ottoman Seal & Signature
This session explores the history and artistry of the Tughra, the highly stylized calligraphic monogram of the Ottoman Empire. Serving as the sovereign's official seal and signature, this distinctive emblem was custom-designed for every individual sultan. The workshop features an insightful live demonstration revealing how these intricate imperial marks were drawn.
Creating a Kufi Murabba Border Composition
Bassem will demonstrate how to write the Arabic alphabet in Kufi Murabba using AutoCAD. Participants will use a provided template to copy and practice the letterforms. The session concludes with a guide on creating calligraphic compositions alongside real-world and personal examples of this unique geometric script.
DAY CLOSE REFLECTIONS
END OF DAY 03
DAY 04 WELCOME
The Art of Ottoman Bookbinding: Zerbahar Style Sancak Binding
Explore the art of Ottoman bookbinding through the creation of a contemporary book inspired by the traditional Sancak Mushaf. In this session, book artist Osman Doruk introduces the historical background and distinctive structure of the Sancak Mushaf, followed by a step-by-step demonstration of its construction and decoration using the traditional Zerbahar style. The session explores Ottoman bookbinding techniques, materials and craftsmanship, and how historical traditions can inform contemporary book arts.
Draw and Paint an Islamic Geometric Pattern Inspired by Nature
From Clay to Glaze: Creating Iznik Tiles Step-By-Step
Discover the historic art of Iznik ceramics in this comprehensive, immersive workshop. Inspired by an authentic pattern from the British Museum Collection, participants will be guided through every production phase. You will learn the traditional methods of preparing the clay, firing, drawing the design, painting, and completing your own final piece.
CAFE HOUR
My Artistic Journey from Arabic Calligraphy to Arabic Typography
The Art of Paper Quilling: Islamic Biomorphic Design
Discover paper quilling by crafting flowing, nature-inspired Islamic biomorphic designs. Perfect for beginners, this workshop teaches you to roll and shape paper strips into intricate patterns. Along the way, explore how this repetitive, meditative craft transforms into a spiritual practice of Ihsan (excellence), giving your final piece its own unique life.
DAY CLOSE REFLECTIONS
END OF DAY 04
DAY 04 WELCOME
The Art of Ottoman Bookbinding: Zerbahar Style Sancak Binding
Explore the art of Ottoman bookbinding through the creation of a contemporary book inspired by the traditional Sancak Mushaf. In this session, book artist Osman Doruk introduces the historical background and distinctive structure of the Sancak Mushaf, followed by a step-by-step demonstration of its construction and decoration using the traditional Zerbahar style. The session explores Ottoman bookbinding techniques, materials and craftsmanship, and how historical traditions can inform contemporary book arts.
Draw and Paint an Islamic Geometric Pattern Inspired by Nature
From Clay to Glaze: Creating Iznik Tiles Step-By-Step
Discover the historic art of Iznik ceramics in this comprehensive, immersive workshop. Inspired by an authentic pattern from the British Museum Collection, participants will be guided through every production phase. You will learn the traditional methods of preparing the clay, firing, drawing the design, painting, and completing your own final piece.
CAFE HOUR
My Artistic Journey from Arabic Calligraphy to Arabic Typography
The Art of Paper Quilling: Islamic Biomorphic Design
Discover paper quilling by crafting flowing, nature-inspired Islamic biomorphic designs. Perfect for beginners, this workshop teaches you to roll and shape paper strips into intricate patterns. Along the way, explore how this repetitive, meditative craft transforms into a spiritual practice of Ihsan (excellence), giving your final piece its own unique life.
DAY CLOSE REFLECTIONS
END OF DAY 04
DAY 05 WELCOME
Application of Tile-Effect Patterns in the Art of Illumination
Zeynep’s project blends traditional Turkish-Islamic illumination and tile art onto a single surface using modern techniques for Islamic Art Week. By combining classical patterns with lustrous glaze effects from İznik and Kütahya tiles, special paper layering simulates a wet, glossy finish straight from the kiln, beautifully merging two artistic histories.
Applying a Biomorphic Pattern onto Leather
Discover traditional leatherwork in this beginner-friendly masterclass. Sharing a craft passed down through four generations of her Spanish family, Walada explores Andalusi Cordobanes and Guadamecíes traditions. You will learn to prepare vegetable-tanned leather and use simple hand tools to permanently carve a beautiful, flowing biomorphic design.
From Islamic Architecture to Script
This session explores Arabic calligraphy in Moroccan architecture, focusing on the rich inscriptions of the Bou Inania Madrasa in Fez. Through a brief presentation and live demonstration, you will discover the beauty and rhythm of Maghribi script. The workshop concludes with a live calligraphic rendering of the historical Basmalah.
CAFE HOUR
DAY CLOSE REFLECTIONS
END OF DAY 05
DAY 05 WELCOME
Application of Tile-Effect Patterns in the Art of Illumination
Zeynep’s project blends traditional Turkish-Islamic illumination and tile art onto a single surface using modern techniques for Islamic Art Week. By combining classical patterns with lustrous glaze effects from İznik and Kütahya tiles, special paper layering simulates a wet, glossy finish straight from the kiln, beautifully merging two artistic histories.
Applying a Biomorphic Pattern onto Leather
Discover traditional leatherwork in this beginner-friendly masterclass. Sharing a craft passed down through four generations of her Spanish family, Walada explores Andalusi Cordobanes and Guadamecíes traditions. You will learn to prepare vegetable-tanned leather and use simple hand tools to permanently carve a beautiful, flowing biomorphic design.
From Islamic Architecture to Script
This session explores Arabic calligraphy in Moroccan architecture, focusing on the rich inscriptions of the Bou Inania Madrasa in Fez. Through a brief presentation and live demonstration, you will discover the beauty and rhythm of Maghribi script. The workshop concludes with a live calligraphic rendering of the historical Basmalah.
CAFE HOUR
DAY CLOSE REFLECTIONS
END OF DAY 05
DAY 06 WELCOME
The Light of Pen: "Verily the value of action is not except by intention" Arabic Calligraphy in Chinese Style
Join world-renowned master Haji Noor Deen for an immersive introduction to Islamic calligraphy in the traditional Chinese style. In this workshop, you will learn to navigate the specific tools of the craft while witnessing a live demonstration writing the powerful prophetic phrase, "Actions are judged by intentions."
Handsawing of Islamic Art Pattern on Brass
In this easy, step-by-step session, you will learn how to make a beautiful keychain from a simple sheet of brass. We will use a traditional islamic design and make it come to life using a handsaw. You will see the whole process from start to finish preparing the metal and the design, drilling holes, handsawing the lines, and finally simple polishing to the piece and adding a keychain ring. This workshop shows how a simple idea and patience can turn a piece of metal into a beautiful object you can use every day.
CAFE HOUR
Where Light Meets Plaster: An Introduction to the Heritage of Gypsum in Islamic Art
Step into the world of Qamariyyat, delicate gypsum windows where carved plaster, coloured glass and light combine beautifully. Inspired by the Jameel Gallery at the V&A, you will discover the history and architectural significance of these luminous windows in traditional homes, mosques and churches.
After exploring how they balanced light, colour and privacy, you will learn how you can create with your own hands. You will learn the basics of cutting and setting coloured glass into a gypsum frame, creating your own window of light.
A Garden of Gold: Ottoman Illumination on the Digital Canvas
DAY CLOSE REFLECTIONS
END OF DAY 06
DAY 06 WELCOME
The Light of Pen: "Verily the value of action is not except by intention" Arabic Calligraphy in Chinese Style
Join world-renowned master Haji Noor Deen for an immersive introduction to Islamic calligraphy in the traditional Chinese style. In this workshop, you will learn to navigate the specific tools of the craft while witnessing a live demonstration writing the powerful prophetic phrase, "Actions are judged by intentions."
Handsawing of Islamic Art Pattern on Brass
In this easy, step-by-step session, you will learn how to make a beautiful keychain from a simple sheet of brass. We will use a traditional islamic design and make it come to life using a handsaw. You will see the whole process from start to finish preparing the metal and the design, drilling holes, handsawing the lines, and finally simple polishing to the piece and adding a keychain ring. This workshop shows how a simple idea and patience can turn a piece of metal into a beautiful object you can use every day.
CAFE HOUR
Where Light Meets Plaster: An Introduction to the Heritage of Gypsum in Islamic Art
Step into the world of Qamariyyat, delicate gypsum windows where carved plaster, coloured glass and light combine beautifully. Inspired by the Jameel Gallery at the V&A, you will discover the history and architectural significance of these luminous windows in traditional homes, mosques and churches.
After exploring how they balanced light, colour and privacy, you will learn how you can create with your own hands. You will learn the basics of cutting and setting coloured glass into a gypsum frame, creating your own window of light.
A Garden of Gold: Ottoman Illumination on the Digital Canvas
DAY CLOSE REFLECTIONS
END OF DAY 06
DAY 07 WELCOME
Drawing and Painting Islamic Miniature Clouds
In this workshop, Mobeen teaches you how to draw and paint intricate miniature clouds. Exploring the theme "Where Intention Meets Impact," she will share how a pivotal conversation after a ten-year hiatus inspired her to reclaim her artistic practice as a mother, intentionally crafting a creative legacy for her daughter.
Art in Motion: The Traditional Practice of Ebru
Join Zeynep Gurses for an introduction to the traditional art of Ebru, where colour and water come together to create beautiful marbled designs. Discover the techniques behind this timeless practice and also how Ebru can be applied into anIslamic geometric pattern.
Engraving Islamic Patterns on Metal Jewelry
Join Ayat for a hands-on workshop creating jewellery through traditional metal engraving. Participants will learn to simplify a beautiful Islamic geometric motif, transfer the design onto a metal surface, and use engraving techniques to craft textures and decorative lines. Everyone will complete their own unique, custom-engraved metal pendant.
CAFE HOUR
Egg Tempera Painting: Art on Wood
Join Mariam to explore the traditional art of egg tempera painting on wood. In this demonstration, you will learn the full process from preparing the natural egg medium and raw pigments to coating the wooden panel. Mariam will guide you through design transfer and authentic layering techniques for finished artwork.
What Does the Topkapi Scroll Tell Us About Science?
In this session, Dr Serap will walk you through the importance of the Topkapi Scroll and the comparison between other scrolls, including the Mirza Akbar Scroll, followed by a simple, fun exercise of drawing a simple pattern from the Topkapi Scroll so you can experience the links between history, heritage and science.
Acknowledgements and Goodbye
END OF DAY 07
DAY 07 WELCOME
Drawing and Painting Islamic Miniature Clouds
In this workshop, Mobeen teaches you how to draw and paint intricate miniature clouds. Exploring the theme "Where Intention Meets Impact," she will share how a pivotal conversation after a ten-year hiatus inspired her to reclaim her artistic practice as a mother, intentionally crafting a creative legacy for her daughter.
Art in Motion: The Traditional Practice of Ebru
Join Zeynep Gurses for an introduction to the traditional art of Ebru, where colour and water come together to create beautiful marbled designs. Discover the techniques behind this timeless practice and also how Ebru can be applied into anIslamic geometric pattern.
Engraving Islamic Patterns on Metal Jewelry
Join Ayat for a hands-on workshop creating jewellery through traditional metal engraving. Participants will learn to simplify a beautiful Islamic geometric motif, transfer the design onto a metal surface, and use engraving techniques to craft textures and decorative lines. Everyone will complete their own unique, custom-engraved metal pendant.
CAFE HOUR
Egg Tempera Painting: Art on Wood
Join Mariam to explore the traditional art of egg tempera painting on wood. In this demonstration, you will learn the full process from preparing the natural egg medium and raw pigments to coating the wooden panel. Mariam will guide you through design transfer and authentic layering techniques for finished artwork.
What Does the Topkapi Scroll Tell Us About Science?
In this session, Dr Serap will walk you through the importance of the Topkapi Scroll and the comparison between other scrolls, including the Mirza Akbar Scroll, followed by a simple, fun exercise of drawing a simple pattern from the Topkapi Scroll so you can experience the links between history, heritage and science.