The most effective way to learn a traditional art form is by reproducing an existing work; A fundamental method for developing skills and understanding techniques. Artists refine their ability by meticulously copying established works, which helps them master techniques, styles and cultural themes. This practice not only enhances technical proficiency but also preserves and transmits artist’s traditions across generation.
In this course, we will study and reproduce a renowned scene from the Anthology of Iskandar Sultan to become familiar with the Timurid style of painting (1378-1506).
The course introduces the traditional techniques that define Persian miniatures, such as the use of colours, fine brushwork, and rendering the details through this painting. We will explore the story behind this painting, the symbolic and narrative elements that illustrate it, the intricate construction of the composition, the underlying architectural structure, and the detailed patterns used to decorate the panels.
What will you practice:
- Preparing your paper for painting
- Transferring the image on your paper
- Constructing the architectural structure
- Mixing and applying colours
- Architectural decoration (Geometric and Vegetal motifs)
- Outlining and rendering fine details
- Rendering the human figures, the faces and the clothing (This is optional! Feel free to only focus on the building)
* Please note that we are not going to practice the drawing skills in this course.