Sacred Florals

This workshop is suitable for beginners but with a little experience with watercolour

This class offers an introduction to the art of Islamic floral illumination.

Drawing inspiration from historic manuscripts and textiles — particularly Ottoman tulip designs — students will create a stylised floral composition using traditional Islamic painting and gilding techniques.

Participants will explore the principles of symmetry that underpin stylised Islamic floral design and use these concepts to develop a balanced composition.

The workshop will introduce traditional paper preparation methods and provide a demonstration on how to prepare and paint with 23ct gold, traditionally known as shell gold.

Students will learn the classical halkar shading technique and apply it to their own floral design, either creating an original composition or working from a template provided by the tutor.

Throughout the session, emphasis will be placed on understanding traditional materials, careful brush control, and the refined decorative qualities characteristic of Islamic illumination.

Skills and Techniques Covered

• Introduction to compositional design using symmetry principles

• Drawing stylised Islamic floral motifs and patterns

• Painting using the traditional halkar shading technique

• Gilding techniques used in classical Islamic illumination

• Preparing and using 23ct gold paint (shell gold) and an introduction to traditional material preparation

Materials are not included in the booking fee. 

All materials will be provided by the tutor.

The approximate cost of these will be £5, payable to the tutor during the class.