What will I learn on the Programme?
The Royal Institute of Traditional Arts - Jeddah in partnership with The King's Foundation School of Traditional Arts offers a Building Arts & Crafts Diploma for participants to engage with the cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia. The programme integrates crafts skills and design principles.
The programme duration is two academic years, consisting of 6 terms, 3 terms per year
Programme start date: 23rd September 2023
Programme end date: June 2025
Modules of Study
Year 1
Module 1: The Visual Design Language of Al Balad
- Introduction to Geometry
- Biomorphic Design 1: Foundation
- Geometry 2: Patterns and Proportion
- Biomorphic Design 2: Composition
- Decorative Painting 1: Methods and Materials
Module 2: Technical Craft Skills - Design and Practice
- Decorative Painting 2: Practical Craft Skills
- Introduction to Woodcrafts (Mangour, Woodcarving, Carpentry)
- Gypsum Carving: Design and Practice
- Building Crafts 1
- Building Crafts 2
Module 3: Project-Led Learning
- Project Part 1: Concept and Design
- Project Part 2: Production
Year 2
Module 4: Contextual Design Research and Practice
- Geometry 3: Pattern and Structure
- Al Balad Research Book Project
Module 5: Electives - Craft Skills Practice
- Wood Carving
- Traditional Joinery (ta'asheeq) and Inlay (tata'eem)
- Mangour
- Gypsum Carving
- Decorative Painting (tazouqat)
- Ceramics: Tilemaking
Module 6: Project-Led Learning
- The Heritage Project
Regeneration & Design Projects
The Programme includes study visits and design projects specific to traditional houses in Jeddah’s Balad. Students will do analysis and research work, studio-based design work, and design projects for the regeneration of heritage buildings in Al Balad. Students will learn all the skills necessary to make art and crafts elements for these projects, including architectural drawing and sketching skills.
