Word, Ink, Gold, and Paper: An Exploration of the Art of Illumination

Wolf Humanities Center • University of Pennsylvania

2024–2025 FORUM ON KEYWORDS

Illumination artist Behnaz Karjoo will explore the evolution of Islamic illumination, or tazhib, and its role in manuscript decoration, providing an overview of the traditional tools and materials involved. Visual images of illuminated manuscripts, along with the tools and materials, will illustrate the techniques involved in tazhib, highlighting the precision and artistry.

Following her lecture, Karjoo will host a hands-on workshop, inviting participants to delve into the basic techniques of Islamic illumination and to learn how to paint and outline with fine brushes. Using imitation gold and gouache, they will paint a small design and bring it to life through traditional methods. By closely engaging with the artistry of tazhib in this session, participants will deepen their understanding and appreciation of this intricate art. Space is limited for the workshop, register early!

Presented in collaboration with Penn's Forum for Global Islamic Studies. Cosponsored by the and the .
More information:

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Before and after Behnaz Karjoo's lecture and workshop, view illuminated manuscripts from on display in the Lea Library!
11:00–11:45am: Lecture
1:00–3:00pm: Workshop (space is limited)
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Born in Tehran, Iran, moved to the United States at a young age, where she developed an interest in art. Her creative pursuits took a serious turn later in her life, when she started to study jewelry design and photography at the Fashion Institute of Technology. Inspired by her early memories of Iranian mosque architecture, illumination, and calligraphy, she soon pursued training in the classical Islamic arts. Under the mentorship of Mujgan Baskoylu, a distinguished master in Turkish illumination, miniature painting, and paper cutting, Behnaz began her study of illumination (tazhib) in 2011. Her dedication led her works to be exhibited worldwide, and in 2016, she earned her ijazet, a certificate of mastery in illumination. Expanding her artistic repertoire, Behnaz pursued the study of miniature painting in 2019, followed by an exploration of square kufic calligraphy in 2021. These continuous pursuits exemplify her commitment to enriching her knowledge and skill set within the realm of Islamic arts. Behnaz is an active participant in the New York Islamic Arts collective, founded by Baskoylu, which is dedicated to preserving and promoting classical Islamic arts in the United States. In her artistic pursuits, Behnaz holds the belief that while classical arts, including illumination, have a timeless foundation, their potential for evolution and growth is boundless. She continually strives to present these art forms in innovative ways, embracing experimentation with diverse materials, colors, compositions, and designs.

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This event is free and open to the public. Registration is required for both the lecture and the workshop. Space is limited for the workshop, register early!

The Wolf Humanities Center values inclusivity and we aim to create a welcoming environment for people of all backgrounds. Please feel free to note any accessibility needs or concerns in your registration, or connect with us by email ([email protected]) or phone (215.573.8280).

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Kislak Center for Special Collections, Rare Books and Manuscripts, Van Pelt Library, 3420 Walnut St, Philadelphia, United States