This apprenticeship project in Fes, Morocco aims to preserve and pass down traditional knowledge by providing art training to children. In a rapidly changing world, it is essential to ensure that the rich heritage of at-Tasṯīr: Moroccan Geometric Patterns, continues to thrive. Through a partnership between CRAFT DRAFT, the Medina Children's Library and the local Master artisans from Fes, this project, aims at empowering young Fes Medina minds with the skills and techniques rooted in the city's artistic traditions.
The 15-month apprenticeship in at-Tastir: Moroccan geometric patterns, came to a close on January 5th, 2025. The 7 students from the Medina Children Library in Fez - Khadija, Aya, Ilham, Firdaws, Khadija, Mohammed, and Mehdi - under the guidance of Lamiae Lazrak and the expertise of Hamza El Fasiki, participated in a unique learning experience. This comprehensive program included weekly drawing classes, visits to historical landmarks, and hands-on workshops in brass engraving, zillij tile work, wood painting, ceramic painting, and plaster carving. The culmination of the apprenticeship was marked by a memorable lecture by Sidi Khalil Amrani on the Islamic and Sufi connections within geometry at the 18th-century Sidi Ali al-Jamal Zawiya in the Fes medina, Morocco.
- Apprenticeship on how to draw Moroccan geometric patterns and how to apply patterns on several craft materials
- Field Coordinator: Lamyae Lazrak
- Instructor: Hamza El Fasiki
- Beneficiaries: 7 skilled children: boys and girls.
- Where: Fes Medina
- Partners: CRAFT DRAFT & Medina Children Library & Local Artisans
12 year-old
12 year-old
12 year-old
13 year-old
12 year-old
12 year-old
17 year-old
Trainee Instructor
Upcoming Steps in the Apprenticeship Program:
- Pairing: Each child will be paired with a master artisan on a weekly schedule. This mentorship will provide invaluable hands-on experience, fostering skills that will empower the next generation of artisans.
- Hiring New Apprentices: We plan to hire 7 new students, specifically focusing on the children of artisans from Fes. This initiative will strengthen our community ties and ensure the continuation of traditional crafts within families.
To successfully implement these exciting steps, we are reaching out to you for donations.
Your contribution will directly support the pairing of children with master artisans, as well as the hiring process for our new students. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a significant impact and helps us in nurturing future talents while preserving the rich artisan heritage of our community.
How You Can Help:
- Make a Donation.
- Spread the Word: Share this message with your network to help us reach more potential supporters.
Thank you for considering supporting our Apprenticeship Program.
Together, we can inspire and uplift the next generation of artisans!