In this 1-day taster course we will explore the techniques used to paint gilded floral motifs in Islamic
art. Students will have the opportunity to learn how to use shell gold, a traditional paint used in
illuminated manuscripts. This class will be supported by tutor demonstrations, group, and one to
one feedback, as well as newly designed teaching resources developed over 15 years of experience
with the craft.
Key Information
Who is this workshop for?
All levels of ability and experience welcome. You must be aged 18 or over to participate in our programmes.
How many people can attend?
14 people
What days/times do I attend?
Mon, 15 December 2025, 10:00 – 16:30
What materials do I need?
Students should bring the following to class:
- 2 x Round sable watercolour brushes (size 00). We will use one for gold, and the other for colour (if you wish to add some colour); this is to prevent contamination of the gold.
- 1 x Round sable watercolour brush (size 0). The tutor recommends brushes from Cornelissen, and Windsor and Newton, but feel free to use whichever brand you prefer.
- Palettes with wells
- Optional: we will mostly be using shell gold. If you would like to add a little colour to the work, please feel free to bring their own selection of gouache paints.
- A notebook and pen (optional)
All other materials will be provided.
Wear comfortable clothing that you do not mind getting slightly messy. Avoid wearing baggy clothing (especially sleeves), loose jewellery, high heels or open-toed shoes.
Where will this course take place?
This course will take place at our studios at The King’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts, 19-22 Charlotte Road, London EC2A 3SG.
FAQs
Do you offer concessions?
Yes, we offer concessions for Seniors/60+, full-time students and people who are unemployed/in receipt of benefits.
Concessions cannot be applied in retrospect. To receive a concession, please apply via our online form. We will then send you a discount code to use when booking your space.
Terms & Conditions
The School reserves the right to discontinue or suspend a Course up to fourteen (14) calendar days before the advertised start date of the Course. This course requires a minimum number of enrollments to run.
Our normal terms and conditions apply.
Tutor Biography
Ayesha Gamiet is an artist, illustrator and art educator from the South East of England. Her work is inspired by traditional Islamic arts and the beauty of nature. Ayesha’s interest in art and culture led her to pursue a BA in African and Asian Art History and Archaeology at SOAS, University of London, and a Master’s Degree in Traditional and Islamic Arts at the King’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts. Ayesha specialised in islimi (biomorphic design) and Islamic manuscript illumination. In 2018 Ayesha received her ijaza (traditional apprenticeship) in this beautiful craft under the renowned Turkish Master Illuminator, Ayten Tiryaki. Ayesha also holds a Master’s Degree in Education (with a focus on Art, Creativity and Culture in Education) from the University of Cambridge. She is a qualified secondary school art teacher with experience of teaching art to adults and children, from primary to post-graduate level. Ayesha teaches both within the UK and abroad, and works as an artist completing commissions and design work. She was recently commissioned by the Royal Library, Windsor Castle, to produce illuminated frontispieces for four volumes of poetry. One of these volumes was gifted to HRH Queen Elizabeth II, a second volume was gifted to HM King Charles. Ayesha’s teaching experience includes delivering training to new art teachers at the Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge; work at the King’s Gallery, London; and teaching for the School of Traditional Arts in London, Cairo, Jeddah, Doha, and Abu Dhabi. She has exhibited within the UK and internationally. Her teaching, travels and experiences in the rich world of Islamic art continue to inspire and inform her work.
