Workshops

Holiday workshops: Drawing Islamic geometric patterns (ages 7–8)

Image credit: Samira Mian

Islamic Geometric patterns have adorned palaces, madrassas and mosques and illuminated Manuscripts from Spain across to China from the 8th century till now. In this session we will recreate a few of these historical patterns using a compass and straight edge the same tools that would have been used by countless geometers & artisans for centuries across the Islamic Lands as well as templates and grids.

We will begin by familiarising ourselves with the tools and a run through of the processes and practicalities involved with examples of potential outcomes. On a blank sheet of paper, we will then draw a series of lines and circles to construct the underlying grid. From this underlying grid a range of patterns can be drawn. We will then outline and colour the eightfold patterns and see how they relates to a wider system of shapes and patterns all drawn from the same underlying grid of lines and circles.

This workshop is strictly for ages 7-8 only. We reserve the right to refund or deny entry to those who are not in this age range.

Refunds can only be issued for tickets cancelled at least two weeks (14 calendar days) in advance of the event date. Please note that this supersedes our normal event terms and conditions. Please also note that Eventbrite adds a small booking fee to the amount paid for each ticket option. 

About Samira Mian

Samira Mian uses her background in Mathematics and Education and lifelong love of creativity to share her knowledge & artistic passion. Breathing new life into the centuries old technique of straight edge & compasses rigorous geometry to create beautiful intricate patterns in a contemporary style.  For the past 6 years she has regularly led workshops in the UK, abroad as well as reaching many online through online and recorded classes, social media and her YouTube channel. Her biggest motivation is to share this intellectual & beautiful heritage and the immensely satisfying pursuits they involve with the widest possible audience.

About our workshops

Holiday workshops at the Royal Institution give students a hands-on experience of STEM topics (science, technology, engineering, maths) beyond what they learn at school. Working in groups or pairs, students will get hands-on to complete activities, challenges or projects which help them look deeper at the subject they are exploring. These workshops don’t follow the school curriculum but instead show students the many real world uses of STEM topics, expanding their horizons beyond the classroom to see the amazing possibilities science can give you. Sessions are led by experts from across industry and academia who will share with the students their excitement and knowledge of their areas of expertise.

For any queries regarding this workshop please email events@ri.ac.uk.

Support to attend holiday workshops

The Potential Trust may be able to offer financial assistance to enable children to participate in Ri events and activities if this would otherwise be financially difficult. Please contact Denise Yates, or at their new email address here

 

 

Event terms and conditions