Botanical Ornamentation Workshop for Higher Colleges of Technology Students

As part of the School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation’s efforts to strengthen the presence of Islamic arts within academic institutions, the School organised a specialised workshop titled “The Art of Botanical Ornamentation.” The session was delivered by artist Namareq Ali at the Higher Colleges of Technology – Fujairah campus and was designed for students of Applied Media.

The workshop stemmed from the significance of botanical ornamentation as one of the most prominent components of Islamic art. Drawing its elements from nature, this art form transforms organic shapes into structured designs governed by precise geometric systems that ensure visual balance and harmony. The session began with an introduction to the historical background of botanical ornamentation, explaining how natural forms evolved over time into repeated decorative units with a distinctive abstract character found in manuscripts, architecture, and Islamic applied arts.

The workshop focused on analytical approaches, guiding students on how to study natural elements such as leaves and flowers by examining their structure and primary lines, then deconstructing and redesigning them into cohesive ornamental compositions. Key principles discussed included composition, visual rhythm, repetition, and symmetry, as well as the relationship between positive and negative space within a design. The session also addressed methods of arranging botanical elements within geometric frameworks to enhance unity and structural coherence.

During the practical segment, students engaged in hands-on exercises, creating their own decorative units inspired by nature. They received direct guidance on proportion control and achieving balance between curved lines and structured divisions. The completed works reflected varied visual interpretations while adhering to the fundamental principles of botanical ornamentation, demonstrating a clear understanding of the concepts introduced during the session.

The atmosphere of the workshop was marked by focus and constructive interaction, as students exchanged observations and raised questions about applying this art form within media and contemporary design contexts. This dialogue helped bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application, broadening participants’ awareness of botanical ornamentation as a visual language rooted in tradition yet adaptable to modern creative fields.

This initiative forms part of the School’s broader programmes aimed at promoting awareness of traditional arts and reintroducing them within contemporary educational frameworks, preserving their authenticity while encouraging new generations to explore their aesthetic depth and creative potential.