Two-Day Traditional Art Workshop: Paper Staining & Biomorphic Pattern Design
Join artist Munise for a rich, hands-on weekend exploring the beauty of traditional manuscript arts. This two-day immersive workshop will guide you through time-honoured techniques used by artisans of the past, blending practical skills with creative expression.
📅 Dates & Times:
Saturday 21st June & Sunday 22nd June
10:30 AM – 3:00 PM on both days
📍 Location:
Dorothy Fox Education Centre
Sheffield Botanical Gardens, Thompson Road S11 8RB
What You’ll Learn:
Day 1 – Paper Preparation & Natural Staining
Learn the foundational steps of traditional art by preparing your paper using natural staining methods. We’ll explore how to tint and tone paper using age-old recipes with plant-based pigments, followed by a burnishing process that creates the polished surface historically used in illuminated manuscripts.
Day 2 – Biomorphic Pattern Design
With your prepared paper, you’ll be guided through transferring your biomorphic pattern following plant-inspired motifs in Persian, Ottoman, and Mughal manuscripts. You'll then learn to paint using gouache and the floral motifs in traditional techniques.
This workshop is perfect for anyone interested in:
- Traditional Islamic art and manuscript techniques
- Natural materials and mindful, meditative creativity
- Expanding their artistic practice with historical methods
All materials are included, and no previous experience is necessary. You’ll leave with your own hand-prepared paper and completed design, as well as the knowledge to continue the practice at home.
Munise Emetullah Akhtar is an artist of Turkish Cypriot heritage, recently relocated to Sheffield. 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 online and at other venues in and around Sheffield, sharing her love for traditional craftsmanship and the calming, meditative process of creation. You can view her portfolio on Instagram at @munise.emetullah.art.
