Persian Miniature Painting: Dance of the Dervishes
About
The mystic dimension of Islam so characteristic of Sufism is embodied in this ascetic figure robed in a woolen garment, or ṣūf (whence Sufi) who is sitting, pondering, his bowl and flute to one side. The whirling whorls of the dervish’s cloak are a contrast to his humble existence. A number of the Indo-Persian painters were indeed members of Sufi orders. Spiritual practice and artistic practice become intertwined since both seek aspects of the divine in life. As the way of the Sufi is at heart a personal journey, so too this class, where we take your individual ideas and incorporate them into your own artistic practice.
The pleasure of concentrating on a single miniature for a period of time involves us deeply. We are immersed in it; we live with it; we live in it. Inhabiting and internalising a painting in this way is a wonderful and traditional way to learn. In today’s fast-paced world we need to sit, focus on and contemplate our single piece and grow to love and understand it. We will understand the subtle art of line, colour, composition and blending by our action of making and doing, connecting with the work. The aim is not to rush, but to dwell. Thus painting is a form of meditation - and devotion - in itself.
Students are invited to recreate this miniature painting alongside the tutor, incorporate elements into existing work or be inspired to create their own compositions with guidance.
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About
The mystic dimension of Islam so characteristic of Sufism is embodied in this ascetic figure robed in a woolen garment, or ṣūf (whence Sufi) who is sitting, pondering, his bowl and flute to one side. The whirling whorls of the dervish’s cloak are a contrast to his humble existence. A number of the Indo-Persian painters were indeed members of Sufi orders. Spiritual practice and artistic practice become intertwined since both seek aspects of the divine in life. As the way of the Sufi is at heart a personal journey, so too this class, where we take your individual ideas and incorporate them into your own artistic practice.
The pleasure of concentrating on a single miniature for a period of time involves us deeply. We are immersed in it; we live with it; we live in it. Inhabiting and internalising a painting in this way is a wonderful and traditional way to learn. In today’s fast-paced world we need to sit, focus on and contemplate our single piece and grow to love and understand it. We will understand the subtle art of line, colour, composition and blending by our action of making and doing, connecting with the work. The aim is not to rush, but to dwell. Thus painting is a form of meditation - and devotion - in itself.
Students are invited to recreate this miniature painting alongside the tutor, incorporate elements into existing work or be inspired to create their own compositions with guidance.
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