Our base will be at Dar Seffarine, beside the Karaouine Mosque, in the heart of Fes el-Bali — an authentic medieval medina whose street layout and many of its buildings date back to the 12th century. To help orient yourself, we recommend familiarising yourself with the main route that runs through the medina: Talaa Kebira (“the big slope”), which stretches from Bab Bou Jeloud to Place Seffarine. Many of the principal sights lie just off this alley, and if you ever lose your bearings, you can simply follow it either back home to Dar Seffarine or out towards the main gate.
This document lists the programme for the 5 days, we will always start the day at Dar Seffarine and we will update you if there are any changes to the itinerary. It’s also worth remember the word Balak (look out) often a warning of an approaching cart!
Practical Geometric drawing class
Lunch at Dar Seffarine (free time)
Introductory to Nasrid biomorphic design, working with Sebka designs led by Adam.
Site visit to Al Attarine Madrasa
Introductory to Nasrid biomorphic design, working with drop-pattern designs led by Adam.
Lunch at Dar Seffarine (free time)
Site visit to Bou Inania Madrasa
Geometric Design: 5-fold Symmetry led by Richard
Lunch at Dar Seffarine (free time)
Group 1
Dar Seffarine: Colour and Tessellation led by Richard
Group 2
Zellij Mosaic Workshop at Art Naji
Meet at Dar Seffarine and walk to trasport.
An experience of discovery into the traditional craft of creating mosaic pieces used in architectural decoration. The session begins with a guided tour to the clay craft production. Participants will then take taxis out of the Medina to the artisanal quarter of Fez — the principal area where zellige is traditionally produced — to assemble and create a small zellige plaque. Refreshments will be provided.
Lunch at Dar Seffarine (free time)
Dar Seffarine: Colour and Tessellation led by Richard for
Meet at Dar Seffarine and walk to trasport.
Zellij Mosaic Workshop at Art Naji
Roof Terrace - Dar Seffarine with Stephanie Cavazos
Dar Seffarine: Biomorphic Design: Working with radial design led by Adam
Lunch at Dar Seffarine (free time)
Geometric Design: Working with Complex Rosettes led by Richard
Materials
Compass (please note: compasses cannot be taken in hand luggage; some will be available on-site)
Plain cartridge paper sketchbook (ideally A3)
Mid-tone cartridge paper
White pencil
30 cm ruler
Precision or “zero” eraser
Tracing paper
Range of graphite pencils (6B–4H)
Drawing pens / fine liners
Small watercolour or gouache set
Coloured pencils