About
This workshop introduces participants to the traditional craft of Islamic gypsum carving. Students will cast a 20 × 20 cm gypsum panel using a silicone mould, learn about the history and significance of gypsum in Islamic architecture, and transfer either a geometric or biomorphic design onto their panel.
Through step-by-step demonstrations and guided practice, participants will carve their own design using traditional techniques. By the end of the workshop, each student will leave with a finished hand-carved gypsum panel and an introduction to this historic craft.
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 programmes.
What days/times do I attend?
Saturdays, 24 – 31 October 2026, 10:00 – 16:30
How many students can attend?
8 people
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.
What should I bring to class?
All materials are provided on this course.
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.
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.
The School may take and use images of you and/or your work for course advertisement and social media purposes.
Our normal terms and conditions apply.
Tutor Biography
Mariam Ashraf is an Egyptian traditional artist and craft practitioner specialising in gypsum carving, Islamic geometric design, and biomorphic ornament. She graduated with a BA in Art Education from the University of Alexandria, where she was awarded first place in her department, before completing a Diploma in Traditional Arts at Jameel House of Traditional Arts in Cairo, specialising in gypsum craft. Mariam holds an MA in Traditional Arts from The King’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts in London, where her research and practice explore the relationship between traditional Islamic architecture, light, and contemporary craft. Her graduation project, “Gates of Light: Reimagining Gypsum in the Architecture of Islamic Sacred Spaces,” reinterprets architectural elements from historic Islamic monuments through hand-carved gypsum, coloured glass, and traditional decorative techniques.
Through her practice, Mariam founded Moma, a platform dedicated to preserving and sharing Egyptian gypsum craftsmanship through contemporary objects, exhibitions, and educational workshops. She has delivered workshops and collaborated with cultural organisations including Leighton House, Yunus Emre Institute, Community Jameel, and Megawra.In 2025, Mariam was selected as one of The King’s Foundation’s 35 under 35, recognising emerging talent in traditional arts and crafts. Her work focuses on safeguarding endangered craft knowledge while creating new pathways for traditional techniques to engage with contemporary audiences.
