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.
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.
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-author 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 on Paper, Ceramic, Brass, Wood and Zallij Tiles.
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!
BOOK YOUR PLACE NOW!
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CRAFT DRAFT Study trips are limited to only 5 participants. We prioritize Quality over Quantity.
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.
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.
This Study trip will be run in English. The local geometry terminology will be provided with a historical overview and translation.
A full non-refundable payment is required before the start of the Study Trip as the venues, materials and masters 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. In the event of cancelation by CRAFT DRAFT, you shall receive a full refund.
All supplies, materials, tools, access to venues, and especially tea will be included. Meals and Accommodations are not included.
In this Oct 2024 CRAFT DRAFT Study Trip to Fes Morocco we spent a wonderful 5 days discussing, drawing and interacting with at-Tastir (geometric) patterns from within the heart of the Fes Medina. The best part of the trip was to meet and learn directly from renowned local master artisans.
Day 1: we started the trip with a general overview of the history behind Moroccan geometric art and then we shifted our focus to the techniques of Tāgbast (plaster carving). After drawing a pattern original to the 14th C. Attarine Madrasa, we had a plaster carving class with Master Abderrazak Bahij.
Day 2: We carried on our discussion on the meanings of at-Tastir but this time we looked at the use of geometry in creating public signage. We looked at different types of fountains and we drew a pattern original to the 14th C. Sidi Frej Maristan fountain.
Day 3: we looked at the various traditional and modern methods of wood painting techniques while drawing a pattern original to the 14th C. Moulay Idiss Shrine. We did a class with Master Nouredine Lahssaini who took us through the steps of Tāzwaqt (wood painting).
- Day 4: We learned about the history of Zallij tiles while drawing a pattern original to the 17th C. Cherratine Madrasa. We then met with Master Adil Moukhlis who taught us about how Zallij tiles are made and after that he helped us assemble, piece by piece, the pattern we previously traced.
Day 5: In this last day of the trip, we talked about the history of Nuħās (brass art) while drawing a pattern original to the 14th C. Bu Inania Madrasa. We were then accommodated by Master Mokhtar El Fasiki - head of the guild - who helped us engrave the pattern on a brass sheet while using various chisels and stamps. Master Abdelilah Waqaf kindly raised the tray edges.
We are thankful to Ba Driss who made such delicious teas.
As the facilitator of this trip, I, Hamza El Fasiki, would love to thank the participants who came from a far and all the masters who were generous to share with us their time, space, tools and most importantly their knowledge.
Until next study trip of April 2025.
- 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.
"Craft Draft study trip was absolutely amazing. I did not take any lessons with Craft Draft prior to the trip, however Hamza was extremely helpful in teaching me the basics again. I learned so much about true Moroccan craft and history. The workshops with the craftsmen were beyond exceptional as we were exposed to ancient practices in beautiful locations. If you want to learn about Tastir and true Moroccan craft from real craftsman, then I recommend Craft Draft!"
"The study trip was well organized. We were able to learn about various crafts, crafting on various mediums, which was insightful. It was very beneficial to visit various sites, madrasahs, the zawiya as well, to be better understand crafts and At Tastir. The workshops , in particular zelij, brass engraving and wood painting were enriching. Class at the funduq was well organized and helped to understand At Tastir better.Teaching at the funduq was very well done and learning at the funduq was enjoyable."
"This study trip was a wonderful immersion in the craftsmanship world. We had the chance to talk to masters and apply Tastir skills into different supports (wood, brass, zellij) Learning about the rich cultural heritage of Fes and Morocco, visiting old madrassas and studying patterns on historical site with the very knowledgeable Hamza is a blessing. I particularly enjoyed sharing a course with the children from the Library. It was ad field with emotion having the young generation teaching us the patterns "
"So grateful to have been a part of Hamza's inaugural study trip, and hope to be part of more in the future, inshallah! Seeing in-person the patterns that we have been learning in online classes, and seeing it in the context of the city of Fes itself really brought everything into focus. Applying patterns that we have only applied on paper so far onto different ("practical") surfaces (brass, wood, tile) was the most beneficial part of the trip, giving us a greater insight into and appreciation of the craftsmanship involved in each craft. Meeting the masters of the different crafts was also another one of the highlights of the trip, as well as the next generation of craftsmen we had the privilege to meet and draw alongside at the Medina Children's Library. Many thanks to them for their time, patience, and wisdom shared with us."
"It was fun with new experiences to use different materials and places in a friendly atmosphere. I like the most that we tried different tasks with other teachers in new places. "
"This study trip was an amazing opportunity and I thoroughly enjoyed the entirety of the trip. I learned a lot and got to interact with various different crafts in a way that was not removed from the actual craftsmen, allowing me to see and experience the work of the craftsmen."