Artists Exploring Islamic Illumination & Miniature Painting

Join us for engaging discussions with artists Ayesha Amjad and Raanaz Shahid, each shedding light on the rich traditions of Islamic illumination and miniature painting in thier work. Whether you are an art enthusiast or simply curious, this event offers a unique opportunity to uncover the intricate beauty and deep symbolism of these ancient art forms, and to see how today's artists continue to breathe new life into this enduring tradition.

About Ayesha Amjad

Ayesha Amjad is a self-taught painter who recently fulfilled her life-long passion to pursue a career as an artist. She completed her MA in Traditional Arts in 2021 from the Prince’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts. Her work explores the concept of journeys using visual inspiration from medieval Islamic maps. Ayesha uses Indo-Persian miniature painting techniques to paint scenes that are part-map, part-landscape and heavily steeped in symbolism. Staying true to traditional practice, she makes her own water-colours using natural materials.

About Raanaz Shahid

Raanaz Shahid is a multi-award-winning artist from the United Kingdom. Her work is heavily influenced by her British, Asian and Islamic roots, which have allowed her to create a style and aesthetic that is entirely unique and entirely her own. As well as studying courses with Art of Islamic Pattern and some with Prince's School of Traditional Arts, Raanaz is an honours graduate of Surface Pattern (with Textiles).

Raanaz’s passion for art doesn’t stop there. After years of practise, she is now an Arabic Calligraphy student studying Quranic scripts Thuluth and Naskh under Master Hoca Haji Noor Deen based in China. She also has the honour to be studying the art of Tezhip in thorough detail with her Master Hocam Ayten Tiryaki based in Istanbul.

If you can't attend live don't worry - all ticket holders will recieve a recording to watch back at your convenience.