Join traditional artist, researcher, and educator Mariam Ashraf for an intensive, six-hour, hands-on workshop exploring the art and history of plaster carving in Islamic architecture!
From Moroccan mosques to Mughal mausoleums, master artisans have long transformed plaster into intricate geometric patterns, biomorphic motifs, and calligraphy. Through deeply carved reliefs, these designs capture the interplay of light and shadow, reflecting the beauty and complexity of Islamic ornamentation.
In this beginner-friendly workshop, you’ll learn how to:
Prepare and cast plaster moulds using traditional techniques;
Explore carving and piercing techniques to create intricate patterns and details;
Develop a geometric design inspired by Islamic architecture;
Discover the history of plaster craftsmanship and its role in architectural decoration.
You’ll also learn to create both solid-backed carvings and full-relief designs with a coloured, glass-style backing effect using coloured perspex. Please note that glass cutting is not included due to time constraints.
Combining historical insight with practical skills, this workshop offers a chance to experiment with traditional craftsmanship and explore how a simple material can be transformed into a work of art.
This workshop is suitable for adults and children aged 13+ of all ability levels. All materials are provided.
📅Date: Saturday 7 November 2026
⏰Time: 10:30pm - 4:30pm
📍 Place: MIAH Islamic Arts & Heritage Gallery | 496 Moseley Road | Balsall Heath, Birmingham | B12 9AH
Tickets
To guarantee your place, please book your tickets in advance.
Early Bird Ticket: £55 (inc. Eventbrite fees) - booking deadline 11pm, 24 October 2026.
General Admission Ticket: £70 (inc. Eventbrite fees)
REFUND POLICY: Please note that tickets are only refunded (minus the Eventbrite admin fee) if requested more than 7 days before the event.
GIFT AID: If you are a UK taxpayer, we are able to claim Gift Aid on your donation at no extra cost to you. Gift Aid allows us to claim an additional 25p for every £1 donated.
To enable us to claim Gift Aid, we will ask you to provide your full name and address during registration.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Mariam Ashraf is an Egyptian traditional artist, researcher and educator specialising in gypsum carving, Islamic geometry and floral ornament. She holds an MA in Traditional Arts from The King’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts in London, where her research and artistic practice focused on the preservation and contemporary revival of traditional gypsum craftsmanship. Explore her work and artist profile at @moma_white_place.