MODULES OF STUDY

Geometry

This module, using monuments and crafts from Pakistan as points of reference and inspiration, will support students to understand symmetries in nature and geometry, develop accurate geometric pattern drawing, and build foundational design skills.

Biomorphic Design

This module introduces styles of decoration based on plant forms that were developed during Islam’s Golden Age and transmitted through different dynasties. Students will learn to analyse and draw flower forms and other motifs found in the artistic heritage of Pakistan.

Introduction to Methods, Materials & Colour Harmony

Students will learn about the history and symbolism of materials, grinding and preparing pigments for the formulation of a range of traditional recipes central to egg tempera, watercolour, illumination, oil painting and gilding. Students will also explore colour from a design standpoint, learning how to achieve colour unity, harmony, and contrast.

Decorative Painting

This module introduces students to painting techniques within a traditional context, with emphasis on painting traditions connected to Pakistan’s heritage. Students will receive instruction in illumination.

Ceramics

This module highlights traditional ceramics applications from Pakistan, including examples from Multan, Thatta, and Lahore. The Ceramics module consists of two components: Plates – covering bisque-ware ceramics and underglaze techniques, and Tiles – covering plaster moulds, tile pressing, and glazing.

Textiles

This module will introduce students to textiles processes such as dyeing, resist (batik, shibori, flour paste, stenciling, tie dye, etc), printing, and painted techniques. Students will explore dyes, mordants, and different fabrics such as silk and cotton.

Woodwork

The Woodwork module introduces decorative woodwork processes, with emphasis on marquetry techniques. Students will be shown examples of the interpretation of traditional principles in the context of a contemporary architectural setting. They will then apply simple geometric patterning as decorative motifs through the application of marquetry as used in Islamic interiors and furniture.

Integrated Crafts

The Integrated Crafts module builds student capacity to respond to a design brief, and to build skills towards their Final Project. This module gives students the opportunity, throughout the year, to evaluate their skills, experiment with projects combining two or more of the crafts introduced in the diploma programme, and develop designs that can be refined and implemented during their Final Project.

Final Project

This project is an opportunity to consolidate and integrate the techniques and principles learned in the Diploma module courses in a finished piece of each student’s design and creation. Final project work will be exhibited at an end-of-year exhibition.

Prospectus

To learn more about the programme in detail, please see our partner’s website: VMCTA. The 2021-2022 prospectus can also be downloaded here.