Episodes

  • Joumana Medlej is a renowned artist, author, and educator from Lebanon. Her distinct visual language, steeped in the historical, compositional, and order aspects of the Arabic alphabet, is drawn from the rich influence of early Islamic art.

    In this episode of the Golden Pages podcast, Joumana shares intricate details about her latest masterpiece, the Book of Abjad, which explores the alphanumerical nature of the abjadiyah. Her artist books, such as the Book of the Moon, are more than just works of art - they are mystical journeys that evoke a sense of richness and mystery. Along with these, we also discuss her project, 'The Canticle of Creatures,' a reproduction of a 12th century Karmatian Quran.

    This episode offers a fascinating perspective on Arabic calligraphy and artist books, we also look at the importance of an online presence for artists with insights into crowdfunding and Patreon.

    Links:

    https://majnouna.com/

    https://www.instagram.com/joumajnouna/

    Golden Pages is presented by Dr. Esra Alhamal and brought to you by the School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation, Fujairah, UAE.

    For more information on the School of Gilding and Ornamentation, please visit our website https://socofujairah.ae/ and sign up to our newsletter to be in the loop.

  • Dr Annabel Gallop is the lead curator of the Southeast Asia collection at the British Library. She has an eye for the unique and distinctive, and a penchant for Malay seals, illuminated Malay letters, and Quranic manuscripts.

    In this episode of the Golden Pages Podcast, we navigate the vast collection of the British Library, home to approximately 500 Indonesian manuscripts. Dr Gallop elaborates on the challenges of cataloging and studying these intricate works. She also shares how the British Library is striving to make these valuable resources more accessible.

    We explore Malay seals, their use for authentication and their role in the Islamic world. Dr. Gallop reveals the cultural significance of these seals and the insight they provide into names, titles, and personal artistic expressions. Be prepared for an adventure, as we unearth hidden treasures in the realm of Southeast Asian manuscripts and illumination.

    Links:

    https://www.bl.uk/

    Golden Pages is presented by Dr. Esra Alhamal and brought to you by the School of Gilding and Ornamentation, Fujairah, UAE.

    For more information on the School of Gilding and Ornamentation, please visit our website sogofujairah.ae and sign up to our newsletter to be in the loop.

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  • Journey through the celestial origins of gold and its transformation into the soul of magnificent artwork in this enriching conversation with Master Gilder Richard Walker. In this episode of the Golden Pages podcast, Richard shares his passion for this craft, his favorite techniques, and his unique experiences.

    From selecting the right kind of gold leaf to the intricate art of sealing, he reveals how patience and practice can lead to awe-inspiring results. We also uncover the fascinating world of Western Gilding, discussing the traditional recipes and techniques that have stood the test of time.

    Richard also shares stories from his favorite restoration projects, including the HMS Warrior in Portsmouth Harbour. He also reveals his techniques in distressing and aging pieces, creating an illusion of time that confers a rustic charm to his masterpieces.

    Links:

    https://watergild.com/

    https://socofujairah.ae/

    Golden Pages is presented by Dr. Esra Alhamal and brought to you by the School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation, Fujairah, UAE.

    For more information on the School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation, please visit our website sogofujairah.ae and sign up to our newsletter to be in the loop.

  • This show will shine the light on arts from the Islamic lands such as traditional manuscripts, Illumination, gilding techniques, miniature, calligraphy, ornamentation and bookmaking traditions. All of these subjects will also be taught in our school so keep an eye on our website: https://socofujairah.ae