Islamic Art: The Mastery of Geometry

From the 7th century origins of Islam to the present, geometry has played a dominant role in Islamic art and design, unifying a vast and diverse region over many dynamic centuries. Plane geometry—circles, triangles, quadrilaterals and polygons, and their segments—underpin the non-figural decoration of both objects and structures in Islamic art. This course serves as an introduction to the theory and practice of geometry in Islamic art. With a compass and ruler, students will learn how to construct geometric designs based on Islamic decorative principles. Alongside a practical engagement with producing Islamic geometric designs, students will learn about the history of Islamic geometry through prominent examples drawn from mosques, palaces, manuscripts, furniture, and other objects. Each class will begin with a lecture on the history and geometric principles of a particular pattern, followed by a step-by-step tutorial in constructing the design. Designs will increase in complexity over the course, gradually building student confidence and mastery.

This class will include visits to the Islamic Art galleries at the Art Institute of Chicago museum, focusing on pieces currently on display as a source for inspiration, discussion, and recreation.

Note: This one-week intensive meets Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with opportunities to work evenings in supervised studios.