Discover the beauty of Islamic manuscript illumination in this hands-on workshop inspired by centuries of artistic tradition.

Guided by artist Zahra Halepota, trace and paint a Shamseh composition on hand dyed paper. Through practice, learn the symbolism behind this rich Islamic art form.

Supported by The School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation (SOCO), a specialised art school in Fujairah, UAE.

Age Requirement: 15+

Please note that doors will close shortly before the advertised time so we request that you arrive 15 minutes before the start time.

About Zahra Halepota

Zahra Halepota practises Islamic manuscript illumination and Persian miniature painting. Trained in the Persian style, Zahra continues to explore her unique style, incorporating a love for nature and a vibrant colour palette that speaks of her heritage. Illumination for her is an endless quest for beauty in the form of patterns that adorn the divine word and beautify the other seemingly mundane surfaces of life. She has taught internationally at various institutes, including Heidelberg University, VM Centre for Traditional and Bayt Yakan. She has exhibited her work at multiple places, including the Tate Modern and Cass Art in London and the AusArten Festival in Munich, Germany. Zahra also has research interests in artistic exchanges in the Islamic world in the early modern period.

About The School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation (SOCO)

The School of Calligraphy & Ornamentation (SOCO), established in 2023 under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, is a government institution dedicated to preserving, teaching, and advancing the traditional arts of the Islamic manuscript.

Based in Fujairah, UAE, SOCO offers specialized educational programs in Arabic calligraphy, Islamic geometric and botanical ornamentation, miniature painting, illumination, gilding, and bookbinding. Through workshops, long-term courses, exhibitions, and cultural collaborations, the School aims to preserve traditional artistic knowledge, nurture emerging talent, and promote the appreciation of Islamic arts among local and international audiences.

About The Cambridge Festival of Islamic Arts

The Cambridge Festival of Islamic Arts runs from 19 to 29 November 2026, bringing performances, exhibitions, lectures, and workshops to Cambridge's historic colleges, museums, and cultural spaces. Open to everyone, the festival celebrates the beauty and diversity of Islamic arts, and, fifty years on from the landmark 1976 World of Islam Festival, carries that spirit into our own time. Find out more at cfia.co.uk (http://cfia.co.uk).

Description supplied by the event organiser.