Introspection and Expression:

Introduction to

Mughal Portrait

Learn art from home : 8 sessions, 12 hours of immersive art experience

Course Highlight

  • In-depth study of traditional materials and techniques

  • Practice and perfect lining and visual precision

  • Learn from old masterpiece about composition, color balance, and the way of capturing the subject's essence


Description

This is a comprehensive course that sheds light on the tools, materials and techniques of Indian miniature painting, taking you through each step of the process in the tradition of Jaipuri court masters.


The subject of focus is Mughal portraiture, we will begin by looking at the historical context of Mughal court paintings, discussing some of the aesthetic concepts, and introducing the tools and materials. We will then work on creating a painting based on a masterpiece from the period. Each step of painting will be explained in detail along with live demonstration, allowing students at any level to follow along with ease.


Portraiture practice is an excellent way to hone your visual precision and workmanship, and build on your existing skills and knowledge in traditional art. This course is a perfect opportunity to immerse in the beauty of Mughal heritage and explore your creative potential in this unique art.


Schedule

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01/ What is miniature painting

  • Introduction, history and appreciation

  • Knowing your tools

  • Art of the line


02/ Beauty of form

  • The human body from realistic figures to Mughal naturalism

  • Proportions, expressive gestures

  • Draw your composition


03/ Preparing the paper substrate

  • Types of paper

  • Make a Wasili

  • Learn about sizing


04/ Natural pigments

  • Pigment properties

  • Prepare the binder and mix color pigments

  • Prepare transfer sheet


05/ Coloring technique 1

  • Color harmony in Mughal miniature

  • Flat-lay color filling & burnishing

  • Cottony cloud sky


06/ Coloring technique 2

  • “Invisible” shading technique

  • Render the face and body

  • Patterns


07/ Detail & subtlety

  • Where to add depth

  • Decorative ornaments

  • Florals in the foreground/background


08/ Borders

  • All about details - adding finishing touches

  • Create a border with simple design and gold speckles

  • Sharing your work


Timing

Saturdays 21, 28 August, 4, 11*, 18, 25* September *3hr back-to-back sessions on 11 & 25 Sept.

18:00 - 19:30

Time zone in Taipei (GMT+8)

Location

Online via Zoom


Fees

$120

$150 Bundle offer for registering with Siyah Qalam Portrait course


In US dollars

Materials

  • Basic drawing tools

  • Black and sepia ink or watercolor - the tutor recommends Chinese ink stick + grinding slab but other types will work

  • Basic watercolor supplies- choose according to your own preference and budget, the tutor recommends Gansai 12-color set

  • Lining brush

  • Coloring brush - round watercolor brushes #2, 4, 8 or Chinese goat-hair brush

  • Large flat brush

  • Drawing sheets, Tracing paper

  • A3 size Indian Hemp paper or washi (kozo/kumohadamashi) paper. Alternatively, sturdy watercolor paper can be used.

  • Burnisher - polished agate stone or a round object with smooth surface

  • Gum Arabic, animal glue (optional)

  • Alum

  • Drawing Board larger than your paper

  • Natural pigment powder or manufactured gouache*

  • Pigment dishes, mortar and pestle (optional)

About the tutor:

Chumik, a Taiwan-born artist who has been trained in New Media from the School of Art Institute of Chicago before specializing in field of painting in East Asian and Indian traditions. In 2017, she began working full-time as an apprentice at the Royal Atelier in Jaipur, under the tutelage of master artist Ramu Ramdev. While still an apprentice she has been invited to teach miniature painting to local youths, and assisted the master artist in authoring the book 《Secrets of Indian Miniature Painting》, with the aim of preserving traditional art practices and techniques. She currently works from her studio in Taipei where she continues to explore possibilities of bringing together traditional sensibilities and contemporary approach, of finding value and spiritual beauty in the heritage of different cultures.

Let us know if you'll be attending!



FAQ

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Q: Will there be class recordings?

Class recordings will be available within 24 hrs after class, life-time access


Q: Do I need prior experience in painting?

Students of all levels and experience are welcome. If you wish to improve/touch up on your fundamental figure drawing skills, it is recommended that you complete "Foundation Course- Siyah Qalam Portrait".


Q: Will I finish the painting in class?

Be prepared to complete the painting in your own time. Miniature painting, like other forms of traditional art, is a practice of patience. Honor and cherish the time immersed in the making and your brilliance will shine through the artistry of work.

Have more questions? ✉︎ chumik.studio@gmail.com