Animal Painting in Indian Miniature Art – Course

   About the Course

Animal depictions are a recurring element in Indian miniature painting, adding layers of meaning to the visual narrative and often carrying symbolic references. Traditionally, artists drew inspiration from the wildlife of their regions. Among the most frequently represented animals in Pahari art are horses, cows, deer, tigers, and birds.Learning how to paint animals is considered an excellent foundation for approaching human figure drawing and more complex subjects. In this course, participants will study examples from Pahari and Mughal miniatures while practicing techniques such as color application, outlining, and the traditional pardaz shading method. , shading using the traditional pardaz (Pardaz).

Students will also be introduced to the preparation of natural pigments, creating their own handmade paints during class. Paintings will be executed on handmade paper imported from Rajasthan, sourced from one of the last remaining family-run paper workshops. In addition, students will train with the squirrel-hair brush—a fine, curved brush essential for achieving the delicate linework that defines Indian miniature painting. This course offers a unique opportunity to dive into the beauty of Indian miniature traditions and to learn the same techniques passed down since the 16th century.

Learning Outcomes::

• Gain a complete understanding of all stages involved in creating a traditional Indian miniature painting.
• Develop drawing and coloring skills through guided, hands-on practice.
• Master pigment preparation using natural dyes.
• Acquire knowledge of the historical and aesthetic aspects of Indian miniature styles.
• Produce a small painting that reflects the skills learned, according to each participant’s effort and ability.
• Encourage participants to reflect on how traditional heritage can inspire new artistic expressions in contemporary contexts.

Learning Objectives::

• Gain an integrated understanding of the miniature painting process, from design selection to final execution, with a focus on animal motifs.
• Learn the properties of handmade paper and how to work with it.
• Use the unique tools and materials of Indian miniature painting.
• Practice preparing and applying natural pigments.
• Train with the squirrel-hair brush to achieve precise linework—an essential element of this art.
• Practice colour blocking techniques.
• Practice traditional pardaz shading. , shading using the traditional pardaz (Pardaz).
• Master color mixing to achieve specific tones.
• Understand how to correct mistakes and overcome technical challenges.
• Produce a small animal painting, focusing on process and technical understanding rather than outcome alone.

Course Language:: English

Age Group::
Adults (16 years and above)

Course Schedule::

Dates: Monday to Thursday, 29 September – 2 October 2025
Time: 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Duration: 4 days Total Hours: 8 instructional hours
20 Fee: AED 20 per hour – Total AED 160

Certificate:

Participants will receive a the School of Calligraphy and OrnamentationRequirement: Attendance of at least 90% of the total course hours.

School Address:

Al Taif Mall Business Center – 17th Floor – Fujairah, United Arab Emirates

Instructor Biography: Susana Marin

Susana Marin is an artist, teacher, and researcher specialising in Pahari Indian miniature painting. Her work is inspired by early Pahari and Rajput traditions, as well as Islamic geometric and sacred Indian patterns.

She trained in India under renowned masters in Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan, including Padma Shri Vijay Sharma (Chamba) and (Chamba) andManish Soni (Bhilwara) In her studio practice, she uses natural pigments and handmade paper, remaining committed to the traditional techniques and materials of Indian miniature art.

Susana earned her PHD at the Prince’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts in Londonwhere her thesis and collection of paintings explored the teaching and practice of Pahari art and its significance in the 21st century.

She currently serves as a PhD supervisor and visiting lecturer in Indian miniature painting at the same institution, regularly conducting international workshops. Her works have been exhibited in the United States, Europe, and the Indian subcontinent.

Terms and Conditions:

• Fees include all learning hours and the materials provided within the in-person course.
• Refund requests are not accepted after registration.
• Attendance at the specified times and dates is mandatory.
• Please note that no make-up sessions are available