Ornamental Domes of Cairo – Art of Islamic Pattern

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Domes of Cairo

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This ONLINE course prepared by Adam Williamson

Learn how to draw dynamic drop patterns that adorn the domes of medieval Cairo.

This class will combine both freehand and geometric elements. We will draw patterns that decorate the dome of Qanibay Al Rammah that overlooks Sultan Hasan Mosque and the famous dome of Aksunkor Mosque, called el-Azrak, or “the blue”, because of it’s vibrantly colored tiles. There will be an overview of the terminology associated within decorative forms and explore the various motifs and compositional devices.

Ornamental Domes of Cairo

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REQUIRED equipment & materials

A compass (recommended compass is the Rotring Master Bow)
A ruler
Cartridge paper – A3 size ideally heavy weight (120gsm plus)
Range of Pencils (6B-4H)
Tracing paper
Zero Eraser or equivalent
Drop Bow Compass
Optional – Coloured pencils.
Optional – Fine line drawing pens (useful to have, but not essential)

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