This workshop introduces the intricate and lavish beauty of historical manuscript art, a tradition that embodies harmony through its design principles by marrying the structure of geometry with elegant, freehand drawing.

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Taking inspiration from a remarkable page of illumination from 14th Century Anatolia, we will examine its 6-fold pattern structure and discover how the design comes alive with the delicate vegetal motifs interwoven into the composition.

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Over two sessions, I will guide you through constructing the geometric pattern, using a ruler and compass, and drawing various examples of the organic motifs to complete the decorative detailing. We will primarily work with coloured pencil and gold to bring the design to life, and additional guidance on colouring and rendering techniques will be shared.

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By the end of our two sessions, students will have all the elements to create their own interpretation of this historic treasure and leave with an enhanced appreciation of this rich aesthetic art form.

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Skill level: Beginner, no previous experience is required. A basic familiarity with compass and ruler is useful but not essential.