Introduction to Andalusian Maghribi Illumination
In this program, students will learn the basic techniques of Zakhrafa, the Andalusian Maghribi Illumination.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Andalusian Maghribi Illumination represents an Islamic decorative style that originated in the North African region and spread to Andalusia with the expansion of Islam in the region. This decorative style was widely used in Andalusian Moroccan architecture and handicrafts.
Course Title: Introduction to Andalusian Maghribi Illumination
Course Schedule: Saturdays, 1 p.m. UTC.
September 6 – Dec 13, 2025 (15 weeks)
Course Format: Pre-recorded lessons and weekly live-sessions for corrections.
Prerequisites: None
Course fee:
Early bird: $387 (until June 7)
Regular: $435
Instructor: Fouad Blili
Age Restriction: 15+
ABOUT THE COURSE
Andalusian Maghribi Illumination represents an Islamic decorative style that originated in the North African region and spread to Andalusia with the expansion of Islam in the region. This decorative style was widely used in Andalusian Moroccan architecture and handicrafts.
One of its prominent applications was the embellishment of Qur’an and Islamic books, making it one of the notable uses of Andalusian Moroccan ornament. These decorations are characterized by intricate and complex details, combining botanical and geometric elements beautifully and harmoniously. They also feature precious materials such as gold and silver in their coloring and vibrant colors. This reflects a refined taste and high craftsmanship in design and manual execution, capturing the spirit of creativity and beauty in Andalusian Moroccan culture.
The course consists of three modules based on the fundamental stages of Moroccan-Andalusian ornament: the geometric design stage, the floral ornamentation design stage, and the application stage. The course begins with an introduction to Andalusian Maghribi ornament, its features, evolution, and applications. Students will analyze the components of the Moroccan-Andalusian decorative panel and become familiar with different decorative elements such as calligraphy, geometric patterns, and vegetal motifs.
Module 1: Geometric Design
Students will practice drawing geometric designs and be assigned a project to create a design of geometric patterns for their artwork.
Module 2: Floral Ornamentation Design
Students will learn to design floral ornamentation units and their various elements. Students will understand basic ornamentation and design elements, such as the basic unit of pattern structure, binary leaves, individual leaves, links, and flowers. Students will also construct plant units for the geometric design created in the first module.
Module 3: Application Stage
Students will learn gilding, outlining, and coloring techniques in ornament. Students will become familiarized with the tools and materials used in these techniques and will learn to apply gilding, outlining, and coloring techniques to the decorative panel designed.
Classes will be conducted online using Zoom instructional pre-recorded videos. Whatsapp will be used for communication, sharing information, and homework.
ESTIMATED TIME COMMITMENT:
Students are expected to allocate a minimum of 10 hours per week to attend live online classes, practice, and prepare their lessons for submission.
Students can buy supplies from Islamic Art Supplies (click to view) or an alternative store.
ABOUT OUR INSTRUCTOR
Fouad Blili
Ustadh Fouad Blili is a highly accomplished Moroccan Illumination artist renowned for his specialization in the intricate Maghribi-Andalusian style.
Ustadh Fouad Blili is a highly accomplished Moroccan Illumination artist renowned for his specialization in the intricate Maghribi-Andalusian style. With a distinguished educational background, he is currently the Professor of Maghribi Ornamental Art at Al-Qarawiyyin University in Fez, Morocco.
Ustadh Fouad Blili has participated in numerous national and international calligraphy exhibitions and conferences and has received multiple awards for excellence in his field, a testament to his exceptional skills and dedication.
In addition to his academic and exhibition endeavors, Ustadh Fouad Blili is deeply involved in the meticulous design and illumination of the Holy Quran.
He was also awarded the Dubai Islamic Economy Development Center 2016 Islamic Economy Award in the category of Islamic Arts.
