In Morocco, the art of geometry is referred to as at-Tasṭīr and it means the ‘art of straight lines’. Each Moroccan ornament and each geometric shape carries a special colloquial name and a story. This masterclass will unfold these untold methods and narratives and will shed light on the artisanal perspectives.

Using a compass, divider and ruler, we’ll learn how to draw a variety of geometric ornaments original to Morocco. We’ll draw together, ask questions and share—all the while, visually visiting Morocco alongside artisan & author Hamza El Fasiki to gain a better understanding of the cultural and practical applications of the art. This masterclass is open to anyone interested in learning about geometric arts and celebrating the richness of arts and crafts of the kingdom of Morocco, and Fes Medina in particular! You get to keep your drawings.

Hamza El Fasiki is an artisan and author. Hamza has apprenticed under his father at Dar-Attamania Studio in Fes, Morocco between 2011 and 2021.  Hamza holds an MA degree on Moroccan Cultural Studies with an academic research focus on the cultural history of Moroccan traditional crafts from Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University in Fes. Hamza is specialist in traditional Moroccan geometric patterns, brass engraving, and bookbinding. He has also published academic works in the field and traveled around 16 countries while learning and teaching Moroccan culture.