The Art of Tazhib: Illumination Workshop

Join artist Sher Ali for an introduction to the intricate art of Tazhib, a traditional form of manuscript illumination built through repetition and delicate ornamental patterns. Participants will learn some of the fundamental principles behind constructing an illuminated design, beginning with line and pattern before adding colour and painted detail.

The workshop offers a hands-on introduction to a practice historically associated with illuminated manuscripts and miniature painting, while encouraging participants to explore its visual language through the composition.

All materials provided.

This workshop is suitable for all levels. Beginners welcome.

Ages

Suitable for ages 16+

Cost

$35 per person

When

Saturday, 24 October | 10am-1pm

About the Facilitator

Sher Ali, a Hazara visual artist born in Kabul Afghanistan, began his artistic journey at a local art centre before studying at Kabul’s Art High School. He later received a BFA scholarship from the South Asia Foundation and continued his studies at Beaconhouse National University in Lahore.

His practice explores his personal and collective experiences shaped by shifting social and political realities. Rooted in the visual language of miniature painting, his work reinterprets traditional forms to create images and environments that feel both precise and unsettled.

Working across painting, installation, moving image, and textile-based processes including embroidery, he constructs layered spaces where figures, patterns, and surfaces suggest states of transformation, vulnerability, and perception.

Rather than offering fixed narratives, his work invites a slower encounter, where meaning emerges through atmosphere, detail, and repetition.

Sher Ali has exhibited internationally and relocated to Australia in 2021. He is currently based in Melbourne, where he continues to develop his practice.

Sher’s work is currently showing as part of Chogh چوغ at Bundoora Homestead until 24 October.

Join us in the Café!

Our Café is open, offering a variety of light refreshments including pastries, soup, scones, cakes and coffee. It is open from 11am-3pm and the perfect place to grab a bite after your class.

Bundoora Homestead would like to offer workshop participants a $10 coffee + scone special at our café as part of this program. Show your ticket at the café counter to redeem this offer.

Getting here

— Venue is wheelchair accessible – disabled parking available (2 spaces); entry via ramp at main entrance

— Free car parking available (40 spaces) via onsite car park

— Bike parking also available

— Tram route 86, stop number 63 (Greenwood Drive) + approx 6 min (550m) walk. This tram stop is accessible.

In the interest of caring for the health and well-being of other attendees, please do not attend if you feel unwell, even if your symptoms are mild.

To plan your visit click here.

About Us

Please note we are a cash-free venue.

Bundoora Homestead Art Centre is the public art gallery for the City of Darebin, on Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Country. It is a centre for contemporary art, ideas, a public garden and café, housed in a Queen Anne style mansion.

Opening hours: Wed- Fri: 11am–4pm

Saturday: 10am–4pm

Contact us via bundoorahomestead@darebin.vic.gov.au for any queries.

Terms and conditions

Refunds require a minimum of 48 hours notice.

Privacy Collection Notice

Darebin City Council collects, holds and manages personal information under the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014 (Vic) and health information under the Health Records Act 2001.

For Information on how we handle your personal and health information in accordance with these Acts, please see our Eventbrite Privacy Statement at https://www.darebin.vic.gov.au/Privacy-Statement or ask us for a copy by emailing privacy.officer@darebin.vic.gov.au

Please note: general photography and short videos (for social media) will be recorded at this event for promotional use only and to document this event internally. If you prefer not to be photographed, please let a member of staff know once you arrive.

Image credit: Sher Ali 2026