Circles, Lines, Horizons: Exploring Islamic Geometric Patterns

📅 Date: Saturday, 13 December 2025
⏰ Time: 12:00–16:00 (4 hours)
👩‍🏫 Instructor: Azîze Avcı
💷 Fee: £50 (includes all materials)
👥 Class Size: 10–15 participants
📍 Location: 10 Maple Street, W1T 5HA
🔞 Age Requirement: 16+
🌐 Open to All – No prior experience required

Workshop Overview

This workshop offers an introduction to the principles, methods, and contemplative spirit of Islamic geometric design—an artistic language shaped by proportion, balance, and an enduring search for order.

Guided by Azîze Avcı, participants will explore how simple forms—circle, line, and grid—interact to generate the complex structures characteristic of Islamic art. The session begins with a short visual presentation situating geometric practice within its intellectual and historical context, touching on ideas from classical Islamic thought that informed the development of pattern-making.

Building on this foundation, participants will:

• Construct geometric patterns through a clear, sequential drawing process beginning with the circle.
• Learn how underlying grids and proportional systems govern the expansion of a design.
• Observe how variations in rhythm, repetition, and symmetry shape the character of a pattern.
• Complete their work through a guided colouring phase, reflecting traditional aesthetic considerations.

Rather than focusing solely on technique, the workshop encourages an appreciation of geometry as a disciplined craft and a contemplative activity—one that connects material practice with a deeper sense of structure and meaning.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the workshop, participants will:

• Complete a full geometric pattern constructed from first principles.
• Gain a working understanding of the methods used in traditional Islamic geometric design.
• Strengthen precision, concentration, and visual reasoning.
• Receive constructive, individual feedback throughout the session.

Methods of Teaching

Instruction combines demonstration, guided practice, and reflective discussion.
Azîze Avcı will:

• Demonstrate each stage of the drawing process,
• Support participants individually as patterns develop,
• Highlight the conceptual foundations behind the forms,
• Use visual references to illuminate historical examples and traditional approaches.

The teaching style balances hands-on making with an understanding of the intellectual lineage that enriches Islamic geometric arts.

Materials

All tools and materials are provided.

Course Policies and Guidelines

Language: Classes are primarily taught in English, though some terminology may be in Turkish. Instructors will clarify when needed.

Age requirement: Some courses/workshops may have age restrictions (e.g. 16+). Please check individual event details before booking.

Safety & comfort: Please avoid loose clothing (large cuffs, ties, etc.) during practical sessions.

Health & allergies: If you have any relevant health concerns or food allergies (for workshops with tastings), please inform the instructor in advance.

Accessibility: Please let us know if you require any accessibility support so we can assist you.

Personal belongings: Participants are responsible for their own items. The Institute cannot accept liability for loss or damage.

Punctuality: To ensure full benefit from the class, please arrive on time.

Minimum numbers: Courses/workshops require a minimum number of participants. If this is not met, the Institute may cancel one day before the start date, with full refunds issued.

Withdrawals & refunds: Cancellations are accepted up until the start date with no charge. After the class/workshop has begun, fees are non-refundable (or subject to specific refund policies stated in the course description).

Certificates: Certificates of attendance or completion may be provided for selected courses.

Photography: Sessions may be photographed or filmed for archival and promotional purposes. Please inform the instructor if you prefer not to appear.

Communication: Any changes (e.g. time or date adjustments) will be communicated to participants by email.

Feedback: Suggestions and concerns are always welcome – speak to your instructor or email us at londra@yee.org.tr.

By enrolling in the course, students acknowledge their understanding and acceptance of the aforementioned terms and conditions.