Full of patterns and long-standing traditions, where geometry, poetry, music and sufism are celebrated in equal measure, Fes is your gateway to a land of ornamental splendour and a myriad of colors. Discover the world of at-Tasṯīr: Moroccan Geometry, with Fes-native artisan and author Hamza El Fasiki from CRAFT DRAFT.
- Day 1: Introduction to at-Tasṯīr: The Art of Moroccan Geometric Patterns:
In this day traditional Moroccan artisan Hamza El Fasiki form CRAFT DRAFT had the pleasure to host a brilliant group from all over the place including various origins and geographical locations: Bangladesh, Indonesia, Iran, Libya, Morocco, USA, UK, Canada, France and Australia so as to spend 5 days in Fes, Morocco while experiencing and learning about the cultural history and traditional artisanal techniques of applying at-Tasťīr (Moroccan Geometric Patterns). In the morning, we started with a mini presentation and discussion about Moroccan culture and patterns. In the afternoon we traced a geometric pattern and we pierced it into a Kāghīť - a geometric paper stencil.
- Day 2: Interaction with at-Tasṯīr: The Beauty of Moroccan Space and Architecture:
After discussing the cultural history of Tāzwāqet - Moroccan Wood Painting, we used the geometric pattern we pierced into a Kāghīť - a geometric paper stencil - to apply the pattern onto a wooden board. The result was exquisite!
- Day 3: Construction of at-Tasṯīr: The Shaping and Crafting of Moroccan Materials:
After previously tracing the pattern, today we experienced two craft materials: Brass and Zallij Tiles. In the morning , we engraved using chisels, stamps and hammers a brass place. In the afternoon, we learned about Zallij Tiles and we laid a pattern on metal frame. Today we experienced the challenges artisans face on a daily routine while crafting the beautiful pattern we often enjoy. We learned that what defines an artisan is their embodiment of the material they craft - we become part and partial of the material! Are you the same as the materials you use too?
- Day 4: Perception of at-Tasṯīr: The Poetry and Music of Moroccan Ornaments:
In the morning we stayed at Sidi Ali al-Jamal Zawiya and we drew a pattern from the graves while analysing the correlation between Arabic rhetorics and geometry. In the afternoon, we had an enjoyable session on the art of Moroccan Andalusian Music: al-Ala. We discussed the connection between music modes and Moroccan patterns.
- Day 5: Exhibition of at-Tasṯīr: The Work of Young Moroccan Apprentices:
In the morning, we visited 2 important historic monuments in relationship with Moroccan patterns. We have finally seen the original versions of the patterns we have been drawing and applying on various craft materials during the study trip. In the afternoon, a special event took place. The international participants at this CRAFT DRAFT Study Trip met with the wonderful @medinalibraryfez kids who are undertaking a special 1-year long apprenticeship program on at-Tastir (Moroccan Geometry) following the true footsteps of the Fes artisans. The event combined a collective workshop led by the trainee apprentice Khadija from the Medina Children Library, a meeting with the kids parents, an exhibition of the kids’ drawings and sketches and a tea & music party at the ALIF Riad.
In Morocco, the art of geometry is referred to as at-Tasṭīr and it means the 'art of straight lines'. Each Moroccan ornament and each geometric shape carries a special colloquial name and a story. There are three traditional methods in drawing Moroccan geometry: Rshim (tracing), Qasma (division) and Hasba (calculation) (El Fasiki, 2023). CRAFT DRAFT Study Trips will unfold these untold methods and narratives and will shed light on the artisanal perspectives.
This study trip offers the unique opportunity to learn the intricate techniques of drawing and crafting traditional Moroccan patterns, using authentic artisanal tools and methods passed down through generations. Under the guidance of local artisan-facilitator Hamza El Fasiki, you will unlock the secrets behind these mesmerizing patterns, gaining a deep appreciation for the cultural significance they hold.
Using a Compass, Divider and Ruler and many other tools, we’ll learn how to draw, construct, and craft a variety of geometric ornaments original to Fes, Morocco. During each session, we'll draw together, ask questions and share—all the while, being in Fes alongside local artisans to gain a better understanding of the cultural and practical applications of the art.
This Study Trip is open to anyone interested in learning about geometric arts and celebrating the richness of arts and crafts of the kingdom of Morocco, and Fes Medina in particular!
Embark on an unforgettable journey to the enchanting city of Fes, Morocco, and immerse yourself in the rich history of traditional at-Tasṯīr: The art of Moroccan Geometric Patterns.
In Morocco, the art of geometry is referred to as at-Tasṭīr and it means the 'art of straight lines'. Each Moroccan ornament and each geometric shape carries a special colloquial name and a story. There are three traditional methods in drawing Moroccan geometry: Rshim (tracing), Qasma (division) and Hasba (calculation) (El Fasiki, 2023). CRAFT DRAFT Study Trips will unfold these untold methods and narratives and will shed light on the artisanal perspectives.
This study trip offers the unique opportunity to learn the intricate techniques of drawing and crafting traditional Moroccan patterns, using authentic artisanal tools and methods passed down through generations. Under the guidance of local artisan-facilitator Hamza El Fasiki, you will unlock the secrets behind these mesmerizing patterns, gaining a deep appreciation for the cultural significance they hold.
Using a Compass, Divider and Ruler and many other tools, we’ll learn how to draw, construct, and craft a variety of geometric ornaments original to Fes, Morocco. During each session, we'll draw together, ask questions and share—all the while, being in Fes alongside local artisans to gain a better understanding of the cultural and practical applications of the art.
This Study Trip is open to anyone interested in learning about geometric arts and celebrating the richness of arts and crafts of the kingdom of Morocco, and Fes Medina in particular!
For all sessions and activities, the meeting point is the CRAFT DRAFT Fes Studio. (Studio Address: 17 Funduq al-Khrashfiyen, Bab Rcif, Fes Medina, Morocco)
Sessions will take place in different locations. The instructor or a guide will walk you to the venue of the session.
Accommodation is not included. Participants are free to book any accommodation they like. Upon registration, participants can request recommendations. It is preferrable that you stay within a walking distance from the studio. (Stay in the Rcif area).
All supplies, materials, tools, access to venues, and especially tea will be included. Meals and Accommodations are not included.
Your safety is of the utmost importance during your trip and stay in Fes. Upon registration, we can recommended other aspects of your trip such as guides, restaurants, taxi services to pick/drop you from/to the airport and others.
A full non-refundable payment is required before the start of the Study Trip as the venues need to be booked in advance. In the event of cancelation from your end, there will be no refund but you can benefit from from up to 36 % discount on Online Classes and on any ordered leather notebooks. In the event of cancelation by CRAFT DRAFT, you shall receive a full refund.
My name is Hamza El Fasiki and I am an artisan, author and instructor. A Fes native, I apprenticed under my father, Master Mokhtar El Fasiki (the head of the brass guild in Fes) learning Moroccan geometric patterns, brass Engraving and bookbinding. I received my MA in Moroccan Cultural Studies with a focus on Moroccan crafts from Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdellah University in Fes, Morocco. I have traveled around 16 countries learning and teaching Moroccan culture. My recent book chapter publication is "Sacred Space: Geometric Patterns in Moroccan Art". In Perspective: Selected Essays on Space in Art and Design, Millet, Sarina (Ed). Vernon Press, 2023.