About
Explore the intricate geometric patterns adorning the facades of Mughal architecture, focusing on Itimad Ud Daula in Agra, India. This mausoleum, a precursor to the Taj Mahal, showcases delicate and finely detailed inlaid patterns that reflect the harmony of geometry, symmetry, and proportion, influenced by local craftsmanship and the Islamic tradition of ornamentation.
We will investigate the underlying geometry of these patterns, starting with those based on grids of 4, 5, 6, 10, and 12. You will learn how these basic grids can be layered and combined to form more complex designs. As we progress, we’ll explore how patterns interrelate and evolve, gradually increasing their complexity.
Additionally, we will consider how materials and colours influence the perception of these patterns. In our drawings, we will explore contemporary interpretations and discuss ways to recreate these traditional designs for modern crafts and applications.
By the end of the course, you will have a solid foundation in identifying, drawing, and constructing geometric patterns from the families of 4s, 6s, and 12s, as well as from 5s and 10s. You’ll also gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship behind these masterpieces.
Key Information
Who is this course for?
All levels of ability and experience are welcome. You must be aged 18 or over to participate in our online programmes.
What days/times do I attend?
Thursdays, 16, 23, 30 January, 6, 27 February and 6, 13, 20 March 2025
Please note there will be no class on 13 and 20 February.
10:00 – 13:00 GMT
How do I attend the online class?
This class will take place on Zoom, an online meeting platform. A link for joining the Zoom meeting will be sent before the start date.
What materials do I need?
- A standard compass. We recommend the Mars Staedtler 551 02 Comfort Bow Compass
- A second, smaller compass, approx 3 in
- Pencils, 2H and 2B
- Eraser, sharpener and ruler (at least 30 cm)
- Colour pencils
- Colour fineliner markers
- A3 paper
- A3 tracing paper
- Masking tape
Online Learning
How do I attend the online class?
This class will take place on Zoom, an online meeting platform. A link for joining the Zoom meeting will be sent before the start date.
Handouts and recordings of sessions will be made available via Thinkific, our online learning platform, for a period of 3 months after the end of the workshop.
What if I have questions during the workshop?
Students will be able to ask questions via chat or unmuting themselves. Students will also have access to our online learning platform, Thinkific, where we share supplementary content.
I live in a different time zone, can I still attend?
We encourage you to attend the course in real time to really benefit from instruction; however, if you are unable to attend live due to the difference in time you can catch up via recordings on our online learning platform, Thinkific. These recordings are available for a limited time after the course.
Recordings cannot be purchased separately if the course is fully booked or if the course has already started.
Tips:
You must download the Zoom app and create a free account before the class begins, so that you can use the full range of features:
- You can create your free account here
- You can download the Zoom app onto your computer or device here
FAQs
Do you offer concessions?
Yes, we offer concessions for full-time students and Seniors/60+.
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.
What if I need to change or cancel my booking?
No refunds, unless cancelled by the School. If you cancel up to 1 week before the workshop starts, we can offer a transfer to another workshop of equivalent value, subject to availability.
Tutor Biography
Jyotika Purwar is an interior architect based in Mumbai, India, with a BA in Interior Architecture from CEPT, Ahmedabad, and an MFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She currently runs her own design practice, focusing on a range of residential and commercial projects.
Her passion for architectural history has led to extensive documentation of significant buildings worldwide. Recently, she has explored geometric designs in architecture, deepening her understanding of the connection between design, materials, and mathematical principles.
