Islamic Geometric Patterns - Istanbul Summer intensive

MEETING INFO:

Date Range:  July 17 - 30, 2022

Time: 10 am - 5 pm Istanbul Time

Course Format: In-Person

ABOUT THE COURSE:

Become familiar with the distinguished architecture of Istanbul and Mimar Sinan and its distinct geometric patterns. Prominent infrastructures include the Şehzade Mosque, Süleymaniye Mosque, the Rüstem Pasha Mosque, Mihrimah Sultan Mosque, and many more!

The program highlights the history and architectural features of significant infrastructures. Visits to certain famous sites will focus on geometric artistry.  The structure of carefully selected complex geometric patterns, such as stone pulpits, ceilings, and kündekari doors, will be studied and analyzed.

To gain different perspectives patterns will be observed using holistic and in-depth analysis. This will be followed by workshops to practice drawing selected patterns using traditional methods including a compass-and-ruler construction.

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR:

Dr. Serap Ekizler Sönmez

Dr. Serap Ekizler Sönmez is a historian and specialist in Islamic geometric patterns. Dr. Sonmez's breadth of knowledge stems from her extensive travels to notable Islamic heritage architectural sites consisting of exemplary geometric patterns. Her exposure derives from visits to Iran, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Egypt, Morocco, and India, notwithstanding her immersion and first-hand experience in her native country, Turkiye. In addition, Dr. Sönmez's expertise in the theological and historical analysis of geometric patterns extends to noteworthy academic research.

Dr. Sönmez completed her Ph.D. in the spring of 2022, addressing the histories of science, Islamic art, architecture, and geometric patterns. Her dissertation, “The History of Geometric Patterns in Turkish and Islamic Art: Methodology, Applications, and Analysis in the Context of the Topkapi Scroll,” is a monumental work that pioneers a complete understanding of the subject matter. Read more>

Registration will cover ONLY the program and materials fees. We have suggestions for two local hotels (2 and 3 stars), and there are Airbnbs as well; however, participants are responsible for their accommodations and meals.

SCHEDULE:

Click to download the schedule