Rotational Ornament: Ottoman
Door Knockers & Roundels of Istanbul
Online Practical Drawing & Painting Workshop
14&15th February 2026
3:00–5:00 pm (UK time)
10% fees for online classes go to unicef’s children-in-gaza-crisis-appeal
Step into the ceremonial thresholds of Istanbul and explore the exquisite Ottoman door knockers and bosses — small architectural elements where geometry, sound, and craft meet.
In this two-day online workshop, we will study both the hanging knockers and the circular plates and studs behind them, known in Turkish as kapı tokmağı (door knocker) and kapı göbeği / kapı topuzu (central boss or door stud). These fittings transform the act of entering into a moment of ritual, where touch, sound, and symmetry are carefully composed.
Day One — Structure, Symbol & Material
We begin by analysing historic Ottoman examples from across the city, mapping their radial divisions, rotational axes, and hidden construction lines. We’ll look closely at the materials and making — typically cast brass or bronze, then hand-chased and engraved, often darkened in the recesses and burnished on the high points through centuries of use. You’ll learn how circular fields become stages for interlace, vegetal motifs, and ribbon-like forms.
Day Two — Drawing, Refinement & Shading
Building on this framework, you’ll construct a full roundel and boss system of your own. We’ll refine linework, develop depth through shading, and explore how light plays across metal relief to suggest weight, patina, and wear — bringing the ornament into architectural presence.
- Construct rotational and radial symmetry systems
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Analyse the geometry behind kapı tokmağı and kapı göbeği designs
- Develop motifs from a single generating curve within a circular field
- Create seamless circular repeats and rhythmic linear sequences
- Apply shading techniques to suggest cast and chased metal surfaces
All levels are welcome — from beginners to experienced artists, designers, and craftspeople. The class is taught step by step, guiding you through each stage of analysis, construction, and refinement.
By the end of the workshop, you will have a fully rendered ornamental study inspired by the doors of Ottoman Istanbul, alongside a deeper understanding of how geometry, material, and ritual shape architectural detail.
A full recording of both sessions will be provided, giving you lifetime access to revisit the process and continue developing your work.
By the end of the workshop, you will have at least two complete, fully rendered ornamental drawings — one from each day — inspired by the door knockers and bosses of Ottoman Istanbul. Alongside these finished pieces, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how geometry, material, and ritual shape architectural detail, and how to carry these systems into your own designs.
A full recording of both sessions will be provided, giving you lifetime access to revisit the process and continue developing your work.
- Practical drawing class with a short introductory lecture
- All abilities welcome (no drawing experience required)
- Please arrive on time so the step-by-step progression is clear
- Downloadable recording
These online presentations are taught by Adam Williamson, inspired by his studies and travels.
Required Materials
- Compass
- Ruler
- A3 or A2 drawing paper
Mid‑tone paper is recommended (grey, tan, or natural craft). However, alternatives are encouraged, including hand‑tinted, coloured, or marbled paper, all of which create beautiful grounds for highlighting. - White pencil
- Graphite pencils: 3B–HB range
- Tracing paper
- Zero eraser / precision eraser (or equivalent)
Optional (useful but not essential):
Fine‑line drawing pens (0.1–0.5)
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email from wetravel with the zoom joining instructions.
We will also send an email before the class with materials to look over in advance, along with the Zoom passcode for joining the session on Saturday.
If your country does not support PayPal, please use the link Alternative registration option or email: adamzoomclasses@gmail.com
This course will take place on Zoom, so please download the free Zoom app beforehand.
