DIPLOMA IN MINIATURE PAINTING
Introduction

Miniature painting is an art that is indigenous to the subcontinent.

The origins of miniature painting are shrouded in mystery but can be traced to the Stone Age. Engraving and etching techniques that developed in the 4th millennium BC are important in understanding the historical development of miniature.

Mani, the Persian founder of Manicheanism is considered the father of miniature painting having illustrated the holy book of his religion. Therefore as an art form within the region, the origins of miniature painting can be traced back to what is now present day Iran. Starting from the Parthians and all the way to the Sassanids, we can see the stylistic antecedents of what eventually evolved into Persia miniature painting as we know it today.

The art of miniature painting after the arrival of Islam has been thoroughly documented and studied. The Sheraz, Tabrez and Herat schools of Persian miniature painting produced manuscripts illustrations of great quality and represent the zenith of Persian miniature painting.

In the Indian subcontinent,the development of miniature painting can be attributed to various sources. From the Gupta Dynasty to the arrival of Persian miniature painters in the subcontinent in the 14th century- Islamic miniature painting as we know it today owes its historical origin and development to a combination of historic influences but Persianate aesthetics and skill has continued to play an integral role.

A practical awareness of the history, aesthetics and diversity of techniques inherent in miniature painting is the principal aim of this course as this unique mode of expression is in a state of decline.

Aims & Objectives

National College of Arts is a pioneering institution in the formation and development of a formal training program in the art of miniature painting.

Ustad Haji Sharif, Ustad Shiekh Shujaullah and Ustad Bashir Ahmed have, through their efforts, promoted this art form nationally and internationally.

The continuation of this one-year professional diploma is an attempt to promote and revive this art form under the formal guidance of experienced practitioners who have remained faithful to the unique stylistic philosophy and aesthetics inherent within miniature painting.

The course also attempts to develop a meaningful relationship between theory and practice in order to emphasize its relevance and importance in the artistic history of this region. A critical awareness of this art form will help students reevaluate their sensibilities and knowledge with regards to miniature painting.
COURSE
STRUCTURE
Duration: 1 Academic Year
1-Academic Year: 2 Terms
Evening Program: 2:30 PM- 6:30 PM
Days/Week: Monday-Friday
ADMISSION
REQUIREMENTS
Entry Requirements
F.A/FSc. or any equivalent Certificate with minimum 45% marks.

Admission Criteria
Interview
Portfolio
Applicants are advised to bring any related work to the interview.
COURSE
OUTLINE
Theory: 25%
History of Miniature Painting
Articles /Reading about masters in Miniature Painting
Pioneers of Miniature Painting
Contemporary / Traditional Miniature Painters
Visits to Historical Places

Practical: 75%
Seminars and Tutorials
Introduction of Miniature Painting
Tools and Materials
Brushmaking
Pigments and Preparation "Wasli" making (special sheet for Miniature Painting)
Drawing (Biomorphic, Figure Drawing)
Techniques and Process
FACULTY
Prof. Dr. Murtaza Jafri

Principal
Programme Director
BFA National College of Arts, Lahore
MA Chelsea College of Arts, London
PhD (Fine Arts), Post Doc. Research Fellow AVA, London
Advanced Drawing, Concordia University, Montreal

Muhammad Shahzad Tanveer

B.A, LLB, LLM (Candidate)
Administrator

Ustad Khurshid Alam Gohar Qalam

(Pride of Performance)

Ustad Saif-ur-Rehman

(Pride of Performance)

Nausheen Iftikhar

Faculty

Hafiz Saeed Ahmed

Faculty

Lahore Campus Contact

Rawalpindi Campus Contact


ISLAMABAD CAMP OFFICE


NCA TOLLINTON BLOCK


GILGIT CAMP OFFICE




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