Summer School Workshop: Miniature Painting techniques at Dublin Port

No experience necessary but an interest in painting techniques advised.

Artist Samir Mahmood will provide a creative space to look at various traditional and contemporary techniques used in Indo-Persian miniature painting.

Beginning with a brief introduction to the practice and history of Indo-Persian miniature painting, Samir will show participants reproductions of works from prominent miniature painting schools along with contemporary works. The workshop will allow participants to engage with various materials, surfaces, pigments, and tools. The workshop will finish with a demonstration and participants will have the opportunity to prime the surface of Vasli (handmade paper used in painting), burnish paper, and apply a tea wash. If time permits, participants will transfer an image of their choice onto the Vasli using traditional techniques.

Indo-Persian miniature painting consists of a set of traditional drawing and painting techniques that evolved from the art of manuscript illustration. These small but intricate works of art portray complex topics, characters, and stories such as historical encounters, battle scenes, mechanical devices, mystical experiences, and poems of love. The workshop will introduce participants to start creating paintings using a mix of traditional and contemporary mediums, tools, and techniques.

Meet at the orange cabin at the entrance to The Pumphouse, Alexandra Road, Dublin Port at 11.15am. Alternatively you can walk from The Point Luas stop at 11am with a member of staff.

This is a free event, booking essential as spaces are limited. You will be asked to confirm your attendance in order to hold your booking, the week of the event.

Samir Mahmood is a multi-disciplinary artist who blends elements of traditional and contemporary Indo-Persian miniature painting in his work. Samir's artistic practice explores the intersection of Eastern and Western culture and art forms. In his Indo-Persian miniature style works, Samir infuses traditional Sufi and Christian symbology with a queer sensibility. He is passionate about integrating this genre of painting into the mainstream Irish art scene. He holds degrees from the National University of Ireland, Galway, and the Atlantic Technological University, and has received specialised training in miniature painting from Hast O Neest Lahore, Pakistan.

This year, Summer School takes place alongside Longest Way Round, Shortest Way Home, two exhibitions at The Pumphouse surrounded by the active logistical operations of the thriving Dublin Port. The exhibitions are produced and curated by Temple Bar Gallery + Studios, in partnership with Dublin Port Company.

Event Location Information: This workshop will take place at The Pumphouse in Dublin Port. There is limited wheelchair access to the exhibitions and some uneven surfaces outside. There is an accessible toilet. The workshop will take place indoors. There will be seating and drawing boards available. For further details on accessibility, please contact TBG+S Learning + Public Engagement Curator Orla Goodwin.

Image description: A variety of paint brushes and paints are laid out on a table beside a painting on handmade paper, various seashells and a bamboo mat.