A BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO

Islamic
Biomorphic
Patterns
Islimi | Tezhip | Arabesque | Khatai
 Welcome
This is the ultimate guide for beginners who want to embark on
the journey of exploring Islamic Biomorphic Patterns. In this guide,
you will find explanations of key concepts in Islamic Biomorphic
Patterns, as well as guidance on key resources and concepts to
help you start or elevate your artistic game to the next level.

We hope you enjoy it and find value in this guide.

Fadhila Al Dhahouri Sandy Kurt

GCIA Co-Founder & CEO GCIA Co-Founder & Head of Courses

Fadhila Al Dhahouri started practising Sandy Kurt is a self-taught artist,

Islamic Geometric Art in 2019 as a means designer, and educator based in Italy.
of healing from depression and anxiety, Her courses on complex geometry
using it as a way to connect with the attract beginners and Islamic Art
Oneness of Allah. enthusiasts from all over the world!

Fadhila is currently dedicated to As a co-founder of The Global Centre

organising, uniting, and empowering of Islamic Art, she aims to bring
the Islamic Art community. She co- Islamic art and the enriching
founded The Global Centre of Islamic experience it offers to a wider
Art, aiming to make the transformative audience, creating unprecedented
power she experienced through Islamic impacts that will resonate into the
art accessible to people from all around future.
the world.
Table
of Contents

Introduction 5

Principles of Islamic Biomorphic

6
Patterns

Development and Diversity 8

Tools 9

Books 11

Resource List 12

Artists to Follow 13

What’s Your Why? 15

Your Goals & Milestones 16

About Global Centre of Islamic Art 17-18

TITUS BURKHARDT
 Introduction
Islamic biomorphic patterns (often referred to as Islimi,
Nebati, Tezhip, Rumi, Khatai or Arabesque ) are one of
the three forms of Islamic art, the others being Arabic
calligraphy and Islamic geometric patterns.

They vary greatly, and their application can be found in

various crafts and architectural designs. While there is
much debate about the origins of these patterns and
the terminology used to describe them, they all adhere
to the same unifying rules and principles.

"The flower is teacher of symmetry and

geometry that can be treated as sources of
remembering — a way of recalling our own
wholeness, as well as awakening our inner
power of recognition and consciousness"
KEITH KRITCHLOW

What are Islamic

Biomorphic Patterns?
Islamic biomorphic patterns is a style of decorative
motifs featuring floral and vegetative forms that
symbolise the inherent unity of nature. It is often
characterised by its utilisation of flowing, curving lines,
which take the shape of leaves, tendrils, or vines,
typically arranged in repetitive and symmetrical designs.

There are three fundamental principles that lie at the

core of all Islamic biomorphic patterns:

The eternal spiral

Symmetry and structure
Rhythm and balance
5
 The Eternal Spiral
Islamic biomorphic patterns are based on an
underlying spiral form from which all leaves
and motifs emerge.

These centrifugal forms adhere to the

natural laws of growth and progression
towards the light, symbolising the infinite
progression of creation from its Creator.

Symmetry & Structure

The golden spiral is a form/pattern that
can be seen almost anywhere in the Symmetry is a fundamental principle in all
natural world; it is based on an ancient forms of Islamic art, aiming to create
formula known as the golden ratio.
harmony and unity.

Patterns are designed in segments that are

then repeated and mirrored to fill a given
surface.

Rhythm & Balance

Islamic biomorphic patterns tessellate across a surface in
a harmonious rhythm. The meticulous and seamless
arrangement of motifs is crucial to ensure that no part of
the design dominates or pushes to the forefront,
resulting in an even and balanced composition.

Regular brushwork practice can accelerate

Pro Tip: progress and strengthen ones hand.

Practice these exercises daily to attain good brush control

PLATO
 Development and
Diversity
The origin of Islamic biomorphic
patterns is often debated but one thing
that we know for sure is that these floral
and vegetative styles emerged in
Hatayi pattern: Iznik tile painting from the various forms in different areas of the
Rustem Pasha Mosque in Istanbul
world throughout the ages.
As Islam spread, nations adopted decorative patterns and designs
that aligned with the principles of their faith, while also being
influenced by neighbouring civilizations and cultures such as the
Byzantine and Chinese Empires.

Over the years, Islamic biomorphic pattern styles evolved and

became more intricate, featuring variations of floral and plant
designs, as well as motifs inspired by the animal kingdom and other
sources.
Motifs & Styles

Rumi motif detail in Penç motif on Iznik tile Tezhip - Holy Quran Hatayi motif on Iznik tile
Turkish mosque tiles from Rustem Pasha manuscript illuminated
Mosque in gold

A note on terminology:
Islamic biomorphic patterns is a term that encompasses the floral decorative
patterns that are found in Islamic art and architecture. This includes terms like
'Islimi', 'Nebati', 'Tezhip', 'Rumi', 'Khatai' and 'Arabesque'. These terms vary slightly
depending on language, geography and motif styles.

“Tezhip” is derived from an arabic work ‘zahab' (‫ )ذهب‬meaning gold; a term used
universally for the art in which islimi motifs are gilded in gold leaf and is
traditionally used to illuminate the margins, borders, and entire pages of holy
8 books.
cl co pa is
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ic

Tools
Essentials to get started
Practising Islamic Biomorphic patterns does not require high-quality
tools to get started.
As long as you have the basic tools, you are good to go!

B Pencils or Eraser Paper & Tracing Masking

Mechanical
paper tape
Pencils

Watercolour Paint brushes*

Paints

We ALWAYS advocate for organic and eco-friendly paints as they

are sustainable, non-toxic and aligned to Islamic ethical values, as
opposed to plastic-based acrylics and other toxic synthetic paints.

Ruby Mountain offers handmade watercolors,

pastels, other art supplies to artists worldwide.
Colors and collections change seasonally, but are
always non-toxic and professional quality.
To get 20% off, email [email protected]
Find out more: www.rubymountainpaintco.com

Natural Earth Paint, uses natural earth and mineral

pigments and organic ingredients to make high
quality and completely safe, sustainable, and
beautiful art supplies for families and fine artists.
Find out more: www.naturalearthpaint.com
9
QUR’AN 50:07
 lin n s
e ai
k a c o is

ks
ge Th

bl nt
Consider exploring your local
pa
ic

bookstore or searching the used

Books
cl

book marketplace to support your

local community, protect the
environment, and discover better
PERFECT FOR BEGINNERS prices!

There are few books that comprehensively explain the design and
construction process of Islamic biomorphic patterns, which can
make it challenging for individuals interested in learning more
without access to teachers.

However, the available books can still serve as a good

introduction to understanding the art form and may inspire you
to delve deeper into this captivating art form.

BOOKS ABOUT ISLAMIC BIOMORPHIC ART:

Art and Crafts of Islamic Lands by Khalid Azam

Splendors of Quran by Martin Lings

Curves by Lisa Delong

Islamic Art of illumination by Sema Onat

The Arabesque - An Introduction by Dr Heba Nayel Barakat

Lapis and Gold: Exploring Chester Beatty’s Ruzbihan Qur’an

by Elaine Wright

BOOKS ABOUT DRAWING ISLAMIC

BIOMORPHIC PATTERNS:

Motifler by Çiçek Derman

Klasik Devir Türk Tezyini Sanatlarinda Desen

Persian Designs and Motifs for Artists &

Craftsmen by Ali Dolatshahi

Authentic Turkish Designs by Asad Akar

11
 YOUR GO TO

Resource List
GENERAL RESOURCES

A d am Wi l l i a ms on:

h t t ps : / / ar t of i s l am i cpat t er n . c om / r e s ou r c e s
/ i nt r o d uc t i o n- t o - i s l i m i /

Ma ml u k Bi o m or p hi c P at t er n

D r Es r a A l hama l :

h t t ps : / / www. i s l ami ci l l um i na t i o n . c o m /

B i o mor phi c P at t e r n M aki ng

PAID COURSES

Princes School of Traditional Art

Dr Esra Alhamal: Intro to Islamic Art - Create Biomorphic

Patterns

Istanbul Design Center

Art of Islamic Pattern

12
 Many artists have a wealth of information
and inspiring content available on their
Artists to websites and social media pages. So, have
the courage to connect with them and
Follow embark on your artistic journey!

Mahrukh Bashir Shadiya Mohammed

Classical tezhip artist & tutor Artist

Mahrukh is a UK-based Tezhip artist, Shadiya Mohammed, born and raised

classically trained in Turkey. She in Kerala, India, is a skilled artist
specializing in Islamic Illumination or
graduated with distinction from the
Tezhip. With an M.A in Traditional Arts
Princes Foundation School of from London, she is currently working
Traditional Arts, where she now towards achieving her ijaza in classical
serves as a tutor. Tezhip.

Esra Yardimici Ailin Karic Plakalo

Artist & educator
Artist & educator

Esra is a Turkish artist, based in

Barcelona. Graduating from the Fine Ailin Karic Plakalo is a Bosnian
Arts Faculty, she has been practising artist based in Germany who not
Tezhip since 2009; combining only sells original artwork, but
traditional and contemporary arts and also creates tutorials and courses
teaching those interested in traditional for beginners.
arts and classic Turkish floral motifs.

13
 Ostad Rahim Karimzadeh
Designer of Iranian Islamic Decorative Motifs

Ostad Rahim Karimzadeh is a designer specialising in Iranian Islamic

decorative Art. He obtained his Diploma in Decorative Design from the
Academy of Fine Arts in Isfahan.

With over 30 years of experience in his artistic career, he has

created numerous designs in the realm of ornamental motifs.
This extensive experience has enabled him to excel in
designing carpets, wall surfaces, and tiles, following the
century-long tradition of Persian Islimi and Khatai. Ostad
Rahim has also worked extensively in animation production,
incorporating Islamic forms and motifs into his work.

The Global Centre of Islamic Art has collaborated with

Ostad Rahim Karimzadeh to create a three-part beginner
course online specifically designed to facilitate your
learning of Islamic biomorphic patterns with ease.

Some of Ostad Rahim's Works:

14
 p a ic k
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ge ab
T h o n lin k
is t a i s
c le

ns
Our Courses
Our courses are designed to help beginners gain practical knowledge of Islamic
arts and crafts. With these pre-recorded courses, designed by Ostadh Rahim
Karemzadeh, you can master the beginner level of Islamic biomorphic pattens in
your own time, at your own pace and from the comfort of your own home.

Islamic Biomorphic Islamic Biomorphic Islamic Biomorphic

Patterns Part 1: Patterns Part 2: Patterns Part 3:
Persian Khatai Persian Islimi Persian Composition

£40 upfront £40 upfront Release date:

£10 / 6 months £10 / 6 months Sep 16th 2023

30 High-quality pre- 30 detailed exercise A certified award upon

recorded video sheets to start passing the final
tutorials practising yourself assessment

‫دورة تصاميم الزخرفة‬ ‫دورة تصاميم الزخرفة‬ ‫دورة تصاميم الزخرفة‬

1 ‫النباتية للمبتدئين الجزء‬ 2 ‫ الجزء‬- ‫النباتية للمبتدئين‬ ‫ الجزء‬- ‫النباتية للمبتدئين‬
‫ الختايي الفارسي‬- ‫ اإلسليمي الفارسي‬- ‫ تشكيلة فارسية‬- 3
£40 upfront £40 upfront Release date:

£10 / 6 months £10 / 6 months Sep 16th 2023

 START YOUR JOURNEY IN ISLAMIC ART

We navigate the world and life itself by creating meanings and experiencing
them. When starting Islamic art (as with everything in life), clarifying your
'why' is the most empowering way to immerse yourself, derive joy from the
art, and grow in it.

Try this exercise to help discover your ‘why’ and become present
with your experience of Islamic Art.

1) How it makes you feel: 2) What state of mind does it invoke:

3) If you are in that state more often, what is possible for your life:

4) Following on from 3), why are those things important to you?

Understanding the value of practising this art enables you to derive even
greater benefits from it and recognize how it can genuinely shape and
transform your life.
We recommend reminding yourself of your "why" and renewing your
intentions just before you commence your art practice.

Don't worry if your "why" evolves and develops as you overcome

challenges and your skills expand. It is merely a testament to your
growth!
The drive of life is found,
In one's freedom to dream.
Our games of the whimsically unprofound,
Encapsulates fancy, promise and your chosen theme.
15 IMRAN SHAH
 START YOUR JOURNEY IN ISLAMIC ART

Your Goals & Milestones

When we make the choice to dedicate ourselves to an exciting future and utilise practical
milestones to bring it to fruition, we significantly increase the likelihood of turning that future
into a reality.

At the beginning of any journey, planning helps in measuring what is possible. Planning leads to
action. Action leads to learning. Learning leads to better planning. Therefore, when you evaluate,
do not approach it with regret. Instead, concentrate on the knowledge you gained that was
previously unknown and consider how you can incorporate it into future planning.

3-month goal:
What worked & why?
m i l e s t o n e s

Milestone 1: What didn’t work?

What was missing that, if it was there,

Milestone 2: would make a difference?

Specifically, what can you implement in

the future?
Milestone 3:

6 month goal:
What worked & why?
m i l e s t o n e s

Milestone 1: What didn’t work?

What was missing that, if it was there,

Milestone 2: would make a difference?

Specifically, what can you implement in

the future?
Milestone 3:

Commitment requires both imagination and courage, two

essential qualities for any artist to thrive. Therefore, muster
Pro Tip
the courage to invest in your own growth and commit to
becoming at least 1% better. It is through such incremental
16
progress that true growth occurs.
 About Global Centre of Islamic Art
We are a passionate group of artists, marketers,
technologists, and researchers who have united
with the aim of elevating the status of Islamic Art
and bringing about a transformation in the
space.

Our Vision
Our vision is to make the transformation of Islamic Art
accessible to every individual, fostering prosperity,
community, and growth for authentic masters,
students, institutions, and nations. We aim to celebrate
our rich past while reimagining our future on a global
scale.

Our Mission
Raising the standard by Making high-quality tools
building high-quality accessible to the widest
courses designed by the number of people
best masters

Work to expand the Islamic

Develop applications that
art space and create
innovate for today's and
structures and ecosystems
tomorrow's problems
that enable prosperity

Tours to various places Create connectedness, artistic

to enrich tourists and and business mentoring
the local economy through online and offline
events & hubs

17
 Our Values Community Centric

As an Islamic organisation, Islamic art can only

flourish when it is done
together. We aim to

we champion and uphold the create spaces that

make a thriving global
community.

following values:

Pragmatic Independent Trailblazing

Grounded in Encouraging everyone Constantly pushing
practicality and to bring unique boundaries of what's
delivering results perspectives to the possible, pioneering
through a data-driven, table, driving new ways to create the
results-oriented innovation and success. future.
approach.

Empowering Celebrating Diversity Inclusive

Supporting the next For centuries, Islamic Individuals from all
generation of talented art has been global, full backgrounds and
artists, innovators and of the rich diversity perspectives are
leaders to shape that compels us to welcome to create a
Islamic art and beyond. celebrate it. dynamic team and
community.

Become one of our legends!

By joining our global team of volunteers
to help spread Islamic Art worldwide!
1

18
Join Us
Thank You!
We hope this guide is of great value and
inspires you to get creating!

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Researcher www.gcislamicart.com
Alefiya Abbas Ali
Editorial Design Global Centre of Islamic Art Comunity

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Head of Marketing
Imran Shah @gcislamicart