2 Day Workshop: Botanical Motifs in Persian Carpets & Islamic Illumination

2 Day Workshop: Botanical Motifs in Persian Carpets & Islamic Illumination

Explore Persian floral motifs & make your own gold paint in this relaxing 2-day workshop at Sheffield Botanical Gardens.

By Munise Emetullah
66 followers
66 followers

Date and time

May 24 · 10:30am - May 31 · 3pm GMT+1.

Location

The Dorothy Fox Education Centre, Sheffield Botanical Gardens

Thompson Road Broomhall S11 8RB United Kingdom

Refund Policy

Refunds up to 7 days before event

About this event

  • Event lasts 7 days 4 hours

Botanical Motifs in Persian Carpets – 2-Day Workshop
With Munise Emetullah | Saturday 24th & Saturday 31st May 2025
The Dorothy Fox Education Centre, Sheffield Botanical Gardens

Join artist Munise for a relaxing and hands-on two-day workshop exploring the beautiful floral motifs found in Persian carpets and traditional Tazhib art. Set in the tranquil setting of Sheffield Botanical Gardens, this is a rare chance to learn traditional design methods, explore natural materials, and create your own illuminated artwork.

What to expect:
Day 1 – Drawing & Transferring Botanical Motifs
You’ll be introduced to the construction of classical khatayi flowers and lotus buds – iconic forms seen in Persian carpet designs. We’ll break down the rhythm and structure of these motifs and guide you through drawing and transferring your own composition, ready for painting.

Materials needed (optional): sketchbook

Day 2 – Gold Watercolour Making & Painting
On the second day, you’ll make your own rich gold watercolour paint using natural pigment and a glass muller – a beautiful alternative to shell gold with a similar lustre. After making your paint, you’ll be guided through applying it to your design using traditional techniques.

What’s included:

  • All materials and tools
  • Hand-made gold pigment sample to take home
  • Tea, coffee & biscuits throughout the day
  • Your finished artwork to keep
  • A calm, inspiring space to explore traditional techniques

No experience needed – complete beginners welcome.
This workshop is perfect for anyone interested in Persian art, Tazhib, sacred pattern, or simply enjoying mindful, detailed creative work.

Dates & Time:
Saturday 24th May & Saturday 31st May 2025
10:30am – 3:00pm both days

Location:
The Dorothy Fox Education Centre
Sheffield Botanical Gardens (Thompson Road Entrance)
S11 8RB

Spaces are limited to keep the group small and focused. Book early to reserve your place!

Frequently asked questions

Do I need any experience to join this workshop?

Not at all! This workshop is open to complete beginners and also welcomes those with experience in traditional arts or design.

Do I need to bring anything with me?

All materials and tools will be provided. But it'll be handy to bring your sketchbook.

Will there be a lunch break?

Yes! We’ll take a relaxed break around 1pm-ish. Feel free to bring a packed lunch or visit one of the nearby cafés. Tea, coffee and biscuits will be provided.

What kind of gold paint are we making?

You’ll be making your own gold watercolour paint using natural pigment and a glass muller – a beautiful, shimmering alternative to shell gold.

Can I attend just one of the days?

The two days are designed as a full experience, with Day 2 building directly on what we create in Day 1. To get the most from the workshop, it’s best to attend both days.

Where exactly is the workshop held?

We’ll be in the Dorothy Fox Education Centre, located within Sheffield Botanical Gardens. The entrance is on Thompson Road (S11 8RB).

Is this workshop suitable for children?

This workshop is best suited to adults or older teens (16+) due to the level of focus and materials involved.

What happens if I can no longer attend?

Please get in touch as soon as possible if your plans change. Refunds may be available depending on notice given, or you may be able to transfer your ticket.

Organized by

66 followers

Munise Emetullah Akhtar is an artist of Turkish Cypriot heritage, currently based in Mid-Wales. Specialising in traditional Islamic art forms, including gold illumination, biomorphic patterns, and Persian miniature painting, Munise blends ancient techniques with a contemporary touch. Her work is deeply inspired by her cultural roots, travels through Far-East Asia, and a passion for folktales and mysticism. Munise also teaches these intricate art forms in Mid-Wales and at Aberystwyth Arts Centre, sharing her love for traditional craftsmanship and the calming, meditative process of creation. You can view her portfolio on Instagram at @munise.emetullah.art.

10% off applied
£69.29