Geometric & Arabesque Pattern Workshops
In collaboration with the Reed Society for the Sacred Arts
Washington DC
26–28 June 2026
Location: In central DC, to be announced to the group soon.
This three-day programme offers an in-depth exploration of geometric and arabesque pattern traditions from across the Islamic world, combining precise drawing-based study with hands-on material practice.
Participants move from classical compass-and-straightedge constructions and biomorphic pattern design into a full-day plaster carving workshop, translating two-dimensional patterns into architectural relief. The course integrates historical context, structural logic, and contemporary studio practice, providing both a conceptual and practical understanding of traditional pattern-making.
All sessions are accompanied by digital contextual reference material, including historical imagery, diagrams, and source examples, supplied alongside the workshops for continued study and reference.
The workshop is designed as a natural learning progression for returning students, while remaining fully accessible to new participants.
All classes and course material are entirely new and differ from those taught in Washington DC in 2025 at the Katzen Center, as well as from the New York workshops taking place the previous week. Participants attending both programmes may book at a discounted rate.
Booking Options
Participants may book individual classes or choose from several pass options:
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Full 3-day pass (recommended for continuity) Includes all 6 drawing classes (Days 1 & 2) and the plaster carving workshop (Day 3)
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Full Weekend Pass Includes all 3 drawing classes (Day 2) and the plaster carving workshop (Day 3)
About the Programme
Across the weekend, participants will explore pattern traditions from Persia and Morocco, examining how geometry, vegetal forms, and architectural ornament are constructed, adapted, and combined across different regions and periods.
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Limited places
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Traditional compass-and-straightedge construction
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Biomorphic (arabesque) pattern logic
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Historical and architectural context
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Hands-on making through plaster carving
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All materials and equipment are provided.
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Open to all abilities
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No prior experience required
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Participants under 15 must be accompanied by an adult
Programme Schedule
Day 1 — Friday 26 June 2026
Foundations of Geometric & Biomorphic Pattern
9:30am – 11:30am
An introduction to geometric pattern construction using the traditional tools of compass and straightedge. Participants will construct a classical rosette while learning about proportion, symmetry, and the underlying grid systems that govern Islamic geometric design.
Moroccan Geometric Patterns
1:00 – 3:00pm
This session focuses on zellij geometry from Fez and Marrakech. Participants will construct multi-layered rosettes and explore how repetition, rotation, and subdivision are used in Moroccan tilework.
Persian Biomorphic Patterns
4:00 – 6:00pm
An introduction to flowing Persian vegetal patterns, examining how organic forms grow from geometric frameworks. Emphasis is placed on rhythm, continuity, and balance.
Day 2 — Saturday 27 June 2026
Arabesque & Advanced Pattern Systems
Moroccan Stucco Patterns
9:30am – 11:30am
Participants will draw a biomorphic stucco rosette inspired by the Bou Inania Madrasa (1356), Fez, learning how carved plaster decoration is designed specifically for architectural surfaces.
Arabesque Patterns (Islimi & Rumi)
1:00 – 3:00pm
This session explores the Islimi arabesque tradition, with a focus on the Rumi family of motifs. Participants will learn how vegetal forms interlock, branch, and repeat, creating dynamic yet controlled compositions.
Geometric Persian Patterns
4:00 – 6:00pm
A more advanced geometric session focusing on 5- and 10-fold symmetry, commonly found in medieval Persian architecture. Participants will learn to construct complex polygonal systems and understand their structural logic.
Day 3 — Sunday 28 June 2026
Plaster Carving Workshop
Plaster Carving
10:00am – 5:00pm
A full-day, hands-on workshop introducing traditional plaster carving techniques. Participants will work with cast plaster panels and carve either a geometric or biomorphic pattern of their choice, using traditional tools and methods.
The session covers:
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Preparing and transferring designs
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Carving techniques and tool control
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Understanding depth, shadow, and relief
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Finishing and surface refinement
Each participant will complete a carved panel to take home.
Who This Workshop Is For
This workshop is suitable for:
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Returning students wishing to deepen and extend their drawing practice
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Artists, designers, architects, and craftspeople
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Beginners with an interest in geometry, ornament, and traditional design
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Anyone seeking a structured yet creative introduction to Islamic pattern traditions
No prior experience is required, though previous drawing classes will enhance continuity and confidence.
What Participants Say
“Unforgettable. The team was warm, helpful, and perfectly organised. The balance between art courses and guided site visits was exceptional. I would absolutely recommend this experience.”
— Sarah R.
“This was a tremendously enjoyable experience. The art instruction was excellent, the planning worked out perfectly, and most of all, the people were terrific.”
— Michael L.
“What an amazing experience to be part of.”
— Rosie
