Intensive Miniature Art Course

Step into the fascinating world of Turkish miniature painting, a centuries-old art form that combines storytelling, symbolism, and exquisite craftsmanship. Unlike Western painting traditions, miniature art offers a unique visual language where history, literature, and imagination come together in richly detailed compositions. This course provides an accessible introduction to this remarkable tradition, guiding participants through classical techniques while creating their own artworks inspired by authentic miniature designs. Whether you are new to traditional arts or looking to deepen your artistic practice, this course offers a rewarding journey into one of the most refined forms of Turkish cultural heritage.

The Course

This course is designed for those who wish to explore the art of miniature painting and learn the fundamentals of the classical miniature tradition through hands-on practice. The programme is based on designs prepared by the instructor, allowing participants to focus on understanding techniques, colour application, and the visual language of miniature art.

Course Content

• Introduction to the art of miniature painting and its historical background
• Composition and figure concepts in miniature art
• Animal figures: drawing and painting applications
• Scenes from the Mesnevi: narrative composition, scene arrangement, and painting techniques
• Colour application and the classical miniature style

Course Process

Throughout the course, participants work on animal and Mesnevi-themed designs prepared by the instructor. The process begins with transferring the drawing onto the paper, followed by step-by-step painting and detailing techniques. By the end of the course, participants will have completed two miniature paintings.

Materials

All materials required for the course are provided.

Learning Outcomes

• Understanding and applying the principles of the classical miniature style
• Developing painting and detailing skills using prepared designs
• Completing the course with two finished miniature artworks

About the Artist

Dr Sema Yurtseven is an artist specialising in the traditional Turkish arts, with a particular focus on illumination (tezhib) and miniature painting. She actively produces works in these classical art forms and adopts a meticulous, practice-based approach grounded in traditional techniques. Through her teaching, she aims to help participants understand the artistic process, develop technical confidence, and cultivate their own artistic expression.

For more information about the artist, please visit the Artists section of our website. You can also explore her artworks by clicking on her profile.