About
Step into the world of Islamic art through the intricate and meditative practice of tezhip, the traditional art of manuscript illumination. In this hands-on course, participants will design and paint a şemse—a radiant central medallion featured in manuscripts, book covers, and decorative arts.
Guided by expert instruction, students will:
- Discover the principles of symmetry, motif construction, and traditional design elements.
- Learn how to prepare paper and gold for illumination.
- Paint their own illuminated şemse.
Whether you’re new to Islamic arts or looking to deepen your practice, this course offers a rich opportunity to engage with a timeless tradition.
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?
Monday – Friday, 23 – 27 March 2026, 10:00 – 16:30
What materials do I need?
Students should bring the following to class:
- 1 book of genuine 22ct or 23ct gold leaf, loose, 25 sheets
- Gouache in tubes: black, titanium white, ultramarine blue, yellow ochre, red ochre and any others you may like. Your tutor recommends Winsor & Newton and Schimnke.
- A palette with wells
- Pointed, round watercolour brushes, size 0 and 00; Your tutor recommends sable.
- 1 x small glass bowl with a lid for storing your shell gold, approx. 3 inches will suffice.
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
Born and brought up in Kenya, Mahrukh has always been fascinated with the beauty of pattern and traditional crafts, especially the carved Lamu doors and wonderful Quranic calligraphy and design. As a young child, she would use rags left over from her mother’s stitching and paint Quranic verses, emulating the patterns found on the Kabba in Mecca. She now lives in London, having spent a few years in Dubai, and has carried on her passion and interest in art. She immersed herself in various courses and techniques that led her to the King’s Foundation of Traditional Arts. There she completed a Masters Degree in Visual and Islamic Art gaining a distinction. Mahrukh’s interest led her to be offered an apprenticeship to classically study the art of Islamic manuscript illumination, Tezhip under a master in Istanbul, Turkey. She is currently undertaking her final project for the prestigious icazetname (Authorized Islamic manuscript Illumination Licence), which links her to a chain of authorised Ottoman Masters. Mahrukh has a special interest in other art forms such as Persian and Mughal miniature painting and calligraphy. Her work has been exhibited in the UK and internationally, and has been acquired for private and royal collections. She continues to research and study to expand her knowledge and skills and works on community outreach projects locally and internationally, offers workshops and is a visiting tutor at various institutions.
