Tezhip Atölyesi

We invite you to a world once adorned by exquisite manuscripts, decrees, and copies of the Holy Quran – the world of traditional Turkish illumination art. In this special workshop, held in Istanbul and lasting just 3 hours, you will discover the secrets behind the unique, intricately crafted floral and geometric motifs that define this ancient art form. Prepare to experience the elegance of the Ottoman era with your own hands.

Our workshop begins with a concise and engaging introduction to the history of art, where you will learn about the rise of illumination (Tezhip) in the Ottoman Empire and its journey to the present day. Following this, we move directly to hands-on practice, guided by a master artisan. You will learn the fundamentals of brushwork and gold leaf application, and you will embellish a pre-drawn design on special paper using real gold and natural pigments. Experience the magic of bringing motifs to life through techniques such as layering, shading, and detailing.

After your intensive artistic work, it's time for a well-deserved break! While your piece dries, enjoy unlimited Turkish tea or coffee, along with freshly baked, homemade cookies. In this warm and inviting atmosphere, you can chat with other guests about the cultural stories behind the art and designs, further enriching your experience. Our hospitality is an integral part of this artistic journey.

At the end of the workshop, you will not only gain knowledge, but you will also leave with a unique piece of illumination art that you have created with your own hands. This work of art will be a beautiful and personal memento of your time in Istanbul and your creative journey into Ottoman art. You will also receive a special certificate to commemorate this artistic experience. Reserve your spot now and embark on this artistic adventure!
 

EVENT CALENDAR - March 2026

Days of the Week: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Saturdays: 15:00 (or 3:00 PM)
Sundays: 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM 
 

What does it include? 

• Handmade Cookies. 
• Unlimited tea, coffee, and water. 
• Verified certificate. 
• A souvenir to take home. 

Highlights:

• Discover ancient art: Illumination was used in Ottoman manuscripts.
• Learn gold leaf and pigment application techniques from a talented local artist. 
• Create your own detailed design on traditional paper using classic motifs. 
• Learn about the symbolism and history of Ottoman decorative arts.
• Enjoy the warmth of Turkish hospitality with tea, coffee, and freshly baked cookies.

Rules: 

• The event lasts for 3 hours. 
• Students are not allowed to enter the class 15 minutes after the start of the session. 
• All materials are included in the price. 
• The ticket prices and material costs are per person. 
• Suitable for all participants aged 5 and above.