The drawing of trees and rocks in miniature art

On Sunday, November 2nd, 2025, the “Techniques for Drawing Trees and Rocks in Miniature Art” workshop was held at the Calligraphy and Ornamentation School in Fujairah. The event was attended by a group of artists and enthusiasts of miniature art from across the country.

The course was presented by Professor Filiz Adıgüzel,an assistant professor of traditional Turkish arts at Dokuz Eylül University in Izmir, Turkey, and one of the most prominent contemporary miniature artists. During the workshop, Adıgüzell provided intensive practical training on how to draw trees and rocks in classical Ottoman miniature art, explaining their aesthetic and symbolic dimensions, and the techniques of hatching and colour gradation in depicting nature within the artistic composition.

During the course, participants learned techniques for drawing four different types of trees, including the cypress tree, which symbolises immortality and strength, as well as leafy trees and spring blossoms. The workshop also covered the study of rock and cloud formations using wash techniques and dry brush strokes to highlight texture and visual depth.

Participants were able to apply precise brushwork techniques and colour layering, alongside discussing the symbolic meanings of natural elements and their role in constructing a miniature painting. At the end of the course, trainees received accredited attendance certificates from the School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation, in recognition of their participation and commitment to attendance and practical application.

This course is part of a series of artistic programmes organised by the Calligraphy and Ornamentation School in Fujairah, aiming to revive Arabic and Ottoman miniature arts, develop the artistic skills of young artists, and enhance the presence of this heritage art in a contemporary style that combines precision, beauty and symbolism.