Course curriculum

  • 1
    Unit 1: Introduction and Welcome
  • 2
    Unit 2: The Art of Papermaking
    • 2.1 Explore the collection: Works on paper
    • 2.2 Papermaking Studio with Radha Pandey
    • 2.2.1 Introduction to tools and materials
    • 2.2.2. Processing pulp and setting up for paper making
    • Check Your Learning
    • 2.2.3 How to make a sheet of paper
    • 2.2.4 Pressing, Parting, Drying
    • Check Your Learning
    • 2.2.5 Finishing techniques: Making wheat starch size and sizing paper
    • 2.2.6 Finishing techniques: Burnishing paper
    • Check you learning
    • 2.3 Hands-on Workshop: Make Your Own Paper from Recycled Material
  • 3
    Unit 3: The Art of Paper Dyeing
    • 3.1 Explore the collection: Dyed papers
    • 3.2 Paper Dyeing Studio with Radha Pandey
    • 3.2.1. Introduction to Materials and Dye Making Process
    • 3.2.2 Mordants and preparing them
    • Check Your Learning
    • 3.2.3 Applying dye and mordants onto paper
    • 3.2.4 Applying Second layer of dye
    • 3.2.5 Making a Lake Pigment
    • Check Your Learning
    • 3.3 Hands-on Workshop: Dye Your Paper
  • 4
    Unit 4: The Art of Marbling
    • 4. 1 Explore the collection: Marbled paper
    • 4.2 Marbling Studio with Hacer Özcan
    • 4.2.1 Introduction to tools and materials
    • 4.2.2 How to make pigments
    • 4.2.3 Setting up the marbling bath
    • Check Your Learning
    • 4.2.4 Marbling techniques: Part 1
    • 4.2.5 Marbling techniques: Part 2
    • Check Your Learning
    • 4.3 Hands-on Workshop: Create Marbling Designs
  • 5
    Unit 5: The Art of Illumination
    • 5.1 Explore the collection: Illuminated Manuscripts
    • 5.2 Illumination Studio with Anita Chowdry
    • 5.2.1 What Does Illumination Mean?
    • 5.2.2 Principal colours in the art of illumination
    • 5.2.3 Ruling and Establishing the Layout
    • Check Your Learning
    • 5.2.4 Study of a Folio from the Collection of the Aga Khan Museum
    • 5.2.5 Drawing the Design Elements
    • 5.2.6 Adding Gold and Colour
    • Check Your Learning
    • 5.3 Hands-on Workshop: Illuminate Your Design
  • 6
    Supplemental Learning Resources
    • Manuscripts and objects featured in the course
  • 7
    Discussion Forum
    • Discussion Forum (monitored by Bita Pourvash)
  • 8
    End of Course Survey
    • Your Input Counts
  • 9
    Certificate of Completion
    • Thanks & Great Job!

Course Introduction

Do you ever gaze upon a breathtaking, centuries-old work of art and wonder to yourself, “How did they do that?”

Enthralling answers await in Studio Sessions, an innovative new online education series presented by the Aga Khan Museum. With each learn-at-your-own-pace course, you will explore the ideas, materials, and techniques behind masterworks in the Museum’s Collection — and then try a hands-on activity inspired by what you’ve just learned!
But now for $65
Do you ever gaze upon a breathtaking, centuries-old work of art and wonder to yourself, “How did they do that?”

What people are saying...

Isabel B.

An enjoying online course

Isabel B.

I really enjoyed the detailed process in papermaking, as a long-time admirer of manuscripts. I haven't tried it myself yet, but I hope to spend some time at it in 2022. The course made it accessible.
Valeriejane G

Easy to follow

Valeriejane G

Excellent presentations on how to build marbling designs.
Hafiz P.

Great course

Hafiz P.

This course is a wonderful dive into the history, art, and craftsmanship behind traditional bookmaking. The hands-on and easy-to-do activities allowed me to create my own pieces of art and paired with the knowledgeable guidance and examples from the museum I was able to gain a deeper appreciation of bookmaking in all its forms! Can't wait for the next course.
Munira S.

Great job!

Munira S.

I thoroughly enjoyed the practical demonstration by professional artisans of the various stages in creating an illuminated book, using the original materials and techniques of the period of their production. It has given me an appreciation for the intense labor and skill endowed in the process and admiration for the artisans - the patience and pride they invest in their work. Thank you for this course.