About
Syria is home to some of the earliest examples of civilizational Islamic architecture. Its bold, high-contrast aesthetic weaves Roman and Byzantine influences into an authentically Islamic style. Beyond the capital city of Damascus, Syria is home to a variety of lesser documented architectural heritage sites, such as
Al Nuri Mosque in the city of Hama.
In this course, we will be utilizing a ruler and compass approach to recreate an extraordinary spandrel pattern from the interior of Al Nuri. Over the course of three sessions, we will construct a detailed and versatile grid, then learn how to apply the interwoven arcs and Syrian knotwork motifs. This methodology can subsequently be utilised by students to understand and recreate other similar designs from the region.
Key Information
Who is this course for?
While there are no prerequisites for this course, it is best suited for learners with some prior experience of ruler and compass construction. Those new to the tools are welcome, but should expect to spend more time working on their drawing between classes, using the resources provided.
If you are a beginner, you can prepare with our essential geometry skills video.
You must be aged 18 or over to participate in our online programmes.
When will the workshop take place?
This workshop will take place on Fridays, 27 February and 6, 13 March 2026, 15:00 – 18:00 GMT
What materials do I need?
You will need:
- 1 x standard compass
- 1 x smaller compass, ie. 4.5 inches
If you don’t already own both, Rotring makes this useful set. - a pad of tracing paper, A3
- a pad of drawing/cartridge paper, A3
- Pencils, 1 x HB, 1 x 2B
- sharpener, eraser
- selection of colour pencils and/or coloured fineliner pens
- a ruler, at least 30 cm
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 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.
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
Gillian Turnham graduated from NSCAD University as a fine metalsmith, creating sculptural works in metal, wood, and stone. Her early work investigated elements of structure and ornament through architectural miniatures. Building on her interest in ornamentation, her attention turned towards the complex geometric patterns of the Islamic tradition. Gillian’s paintings fuse classical geometry and illumination techniques with contemporary fine art practice. Alongside exhibitions and commissioned works, she is a regular teacher for the King’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts and has developed outreach initiatives to enhance awareness and understanding of traditional arts in the community.
