Islamic Geometry with Samira Mian


Thursday 2 – 4pm

5 – 26 March

Booking: https://www.samiramian.uk/open

Drawing Sixfold Islamic Geometric Patterns

 In the course you will gain a fuller understanding of one family of Islamic Geometric Patterns. This family of patterns can be described as sixfold because of the symmetrical properties of these patterns and their shapes. They can be found across the Islamic Lands in architecture and manuscripts from different periods & locations since the 8th century AD. We will reference examples from history as we work through the patterns, their chronology and increasing complexity.

The focus will be on drawing geometric patterns in pencil or pen. We use the same tools as the countless artisans and geometers who first created these patterns. The compass & straight edge enable us to transforms a blank piece of paper into layers of lines and circles. From these usually hidden underlying grids we can discover many sixfold Islamic Geometric Patterns. All patterns will be accompanied by PDF guides emailed to participants in advance of the course, so they may view on a device/phone during the course or printed out.

Although the following will be provided:

  • Smooth A3 & A4 drawing paper;
  • Tracing paper & masking tape;
  • Compass, Ruler, 2H, H and 2B pencils, erasers and sharpeners;
  • Colouring pencils & fine liner pens;
  • Black pigment markers;

Feel free to bring your own materials & resources.

These courses are suitable for any ability aged 14+

Beginners are most welcome, no previous knowledge is needed.

All bookings receive a confirmation by email when a booking is made and a follow on email with further details & PDF handout in advance of the class. Please be sure to check your paypal account email address junk mail or spam folder.

​About the Tutor

A budding artist and experienced educator with a passion for Islamic Geometry.  By tapping into my 12 years secondary school teaching experience, I have been able to share my passion for the compass and straight edge constructions of Islamic Geometric Patterns in the UK, abroad and online since September 2015. For me it is an immensely satisfying pursuit, from analysing and constructing the patterns, to painting them in watercolours and gouache and of course teaching others, bringing this art form to a wider audience.