Intensive Plaster Carving: A Journey into Plaster in Islamic Architecture

A six-hour beginner-friendly workshop with artist Mariam Ashraf learning traditional plaster carving techniques from Islamic architecture.

The Museum of Islamic Arts & Heritage Foundation hosts an intensive six-hour, hands-on workshop on plaster carving in Islamic architecture, led by Egyptian traditional artist Mariam Ashraf. Participants prepare and cast plaster moulds using traditional techniques, then learn carving and piercing methods to create intricate geometric patterns, biomorphic motifs and calligraphy-inspired reliefs. The session also covers the history of plaster craftsmanship in buildings from Moroccan mosques to Mughal mausoleums, and attendees create both solid-backed carvings and full-relief designs with a coloured perspex backing. Suitable for adults and children aged 13+ of all abilities, with all materials provided.