Geometric & Arabesque Pattern Workshops
In collaboration with the Reed Society for the Sacred Arts
New York — 20 & 21 June 2026
Location: Brooklyn (venue to be announced)
This two-day programme offers an in-depth exploration of geometric and biomorphic pattern traditions from across the Islamic world, structured as a progressive journey from foundational construction to advanced ornamental composition.
Participants begin with the principles of Islamic geometric design, learning classical compass-and-straightedge techniques and proportional systems, before exploring the relationship between sacred geometry and natural form, including the construction of a golden proportion spiral. The programme then moves into the study of geometry in architecture and ornament, culminating in the drawing of Mughal and Moorish arches in perspective.
On the second day, the focus shifts to arabesque and regional pattern traditions, including Moroccan zellij geometry, the structural logic of arabesque composition, and a session inspired by the Silk Road heritage of Uzbekistan, drawing from the architectural ornament of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva.
The course integrates historical context, structural logic, and contemporary studio practice, and all sessions are supported by digital contextual reference material — including historical imagery, diagrams, and source examples — supplied 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 at the Old American Can Factory in Brooklyn in 2025, as well as from the Washington DC workshops taking place the following 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 Weekend Pass Includes all 6 drawing classes
- Limited places
- Traditional compass-and-straightedge construction
- Biomorphic (arabesque) pattern logic
- Historical and architectural context
- All materials and equipment are provided.
- Open to all abilities
- No prior experience required
Participants under 15 must be accompanied by an adult
Programme Schedule
Day 1 — Saturday 20 June 2026
Foundations of Geometric & Biomorphic Pattern
Introduction to Geometric Islamic 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.
Sacred geometry & nature 
1:00 – 3:00pm
This class explores the relationship between sacred geometry and natural form, guiding participants to observe and draw the underlying geometric structures found in plants, shells, and organic growth patterns, culminating in the construction of a precise golden proportion spiral and an examination of how different traditions interpret sacred geometry.
Sacred geometry in architecture and ornament
4:00 – 6:00pm
This class examines how sacred geometry informs architectural design and ornamental systems across a range of cultural traditions.
Participants will study how geometric frameworks guide proportion, structure, and surface decoration, culminating in the drawing of Mughal and Moorish arches in perspective as expressions of geometric harmony in architecture.
Day 2 — Sunday 21 June 2026
Moroccan Patterns
9:30am – 11:30am
This class focuses on an classical geometric pattern found in traditional zellij (mosaic) designs of Morocco. Participants will construct the pattern step by step using compass and straightedge, experiencing the design as a geometric journey that unfolds across the session. The class culminates in the completion of a carefully constructed artwork that reflects both precision and craftsmanship.
Arabesque Patterns
1:00 – 3:00pm
This session examines the structural and historical development of arabesque pattern systems, focusing on how motifs are transmitted, transformed, and reinterpreted across cultural contexts.
Through guided drawing and analysis of repetition, symmetry, and visual rhythm, participants will construct a radial composition drawn in perspective.
Uzbekistan, Patterns from the silk road
4:00 – 6:00pm
This class introduces the rich pattern traditions of Uzbekistan, following on from our recent visits to the region.
Participants will explore a new selection of geometric and ornamental patterns distinct from those studied on the Central Asia study trips, drawing inspiration from the architectural heritage of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva through structured, drawing-based pattern studies.
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
