This introductory geometry class familiarizes students with the principles and language of traditional geometry, beginning with nature’s creative principles and exploring how they inform traditional arts across cultures.

This course teaches students to recognize and develop the stylized floral and plant forms prevalent in the art of biomorphic design. Students also learn the principles of composition and how to apply these designs in the various craft contexts taught at Al Khater House.

This class introduces students to observational and analytical drawing skills. Students learn to stylize and refine drawn elements to reveal universal principles that are present within the particularities of our observed surroundings.

This course introduces the processes of refinement and preparation. Learning to transform the raw materials of earth, stones, plants, and resins into paint gives artists a profound respect for the nature of their materials.

The second level of the geometry courses develops the students’ drawing skills and understanding of pattern construction and composition. Students extend their investigations into symmetry families derived from octagonal and hexagonal proportions, as well as the basic Golden Mean grids.

This course supports students in adapting both geometric and biomorphic designs to various craft contexts, including painting, woodworking, gypsum work, textiles, and ceramics.

A range of traditional skills is covered in this module, including Contextual Design, Gilding, and Egg Tempera Painting, along with various traditional painting techniques found in the region and its neighboring areas.

Ceramics is an art form that can be decorative, utilitarian, or architectural, requiring students to thoughtfully integrate design and craft skills to achieve successful outcomes. Students will explore painted vessels, geometric tiles, and other ceramic skills.

The field of textiles is one of the earliest art forms practiced by humans. This module closely integrates an understanding of materials given to us by the natural world with practical craft skills and careful handiwork.

There are many ways of engaging with the warm, living material of wood. This module offers students the opportunity to explore both geometric and biomorphic designs in wood, drawing on a variety of traditional techniques.

Gypsum is a traditional material that is widely used as a decorative element in the interiors and exteriors of many historic buildings. This module will teach students how to correctly mix and pour gypsum, as well as carve geometric and biomorphic patterns into its surface. The course may also include colored glazing and stained glass.