Tezhip Course: Master the Art of Calligraphy Decoration in the Spirit of Ramadan

Description

Illuminating the Divine Names: Calligraphy Decoration & Tezhip in the Spirit of Ramadan

Format: In Person | All Levels
Date: Saturdays, 11 April – 30 May 2026
Time: 1:00 – 4:00 pm
Duration: 8 weeks
Fee: £295 (all materials included)
Class Size: Min. 5 – Max.12 Students
Instructor: Nagihan Seymour
Location: 10 Maple Street, W1T 5HA (Nearest stations: Warren Street, Goodge Street)

Entry Requirements

• Open to ages 16+
• No previous experience required – suitable for beginners and experienced artists alike.
• Registration is complete upon submission of the form

Course Overview & Artistic Context

This 7-week course introduces participants to the traditional art of illumination (tezhip) through the decoration of an original calligraphy piece (hat). Each student will work on a unique calligraphic text, specially prepared on ahar paper by master calligrapher Hanifi Dursun and provided by Yunus Emre Institute.

Designed as part of a wider artistic project developed by the Institute in collaboration with its Artist Curator, Nagihan Seymour, the programme is intentionally scheduled during the holy month of Ramadan—a period associated with reflection, balance, and inner focus. Within this context, participants will work with selected Esmaü’l-Hüsna (the Most Beautiful Names), allowing spiritual themes to subtly inform their illumination practice.

Throughout the course, students will explore traditional methods of paper preparation, learn decorative techniques passed down through centuries, and gradually develop their own illuminated artwork from start to finish under the guidance of Nagihan Seymour. Beyond ornamentation, tezhip is approached as a contemplative artistic practice, where colour, gold, and form are shaped with intention and meaning.

Grounded in the classical Ottoman illumination tradition, the course offers a calm and focused studio environment while encouraging individual expression and artistic sensitivity. By the end of the programme, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the history and symbolism of this Ottoman-Turkish art form and complete a fully hand-decorated calligraphy work.

The artworks produced during the course will contribute to a collective artistic project led by Nagihan Seymour. A curated exhibition is planned for the end of the year, bringing together participants’ completed works and presenting them as a unified body of contemporary practice rooted in tradition, offering students the opportunity to share their work within a public cultural setting.

Methods of Teaching

The course follows time-honoured methods, passed down from master to apprentice, ensuring an authentic and immersive learning experience.

• Demonstrations by the instructor.
• Hands-on practice with individual feedback.
• Step-by-step progression from raw materials to finished artwork.

Assessment & Certification

• Students receive handouts explaining essential terminology.
• Continuous feedback is given throughout the course.
• A digital certificate of attendance or completion is available upon request.
• Twice a year, works from this course are showcased in student exhibitions, offering participants the chance to present their creations to a wider audience.

Required Equipment & Materials

Most of the materials will be provided by the Institute. However, students will need to bring:

• Painting palette
• Eraser
• Mechanical pencil (0.5 mm)
• Size 0 and Size 000 Winsor & Newton Series 7 Kolinsky Sable Watercolour Brush (Please note that it is not miniature series. Miniature brushes are not suitable for this style of painting)

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.