Persian Miniature Painting Fundamentals -In-Person
CA$395
Fundamentals of Persian Miniature Painting
10-Week Guided Beginner Course | In-Person Group Classes
Format: In-Person Group Course
Start Date: Flexible — Start Anytime
Duration: 10 Sessions (2 Hours Each)
Schedule: Saturdays, 12:00–2:00 PM
Location: 596 Mt Pleasant Rd, Toronto, ON
Age: 14+
Experience Level: Beginner — No Experience Required
Class Size: Limited to 10 Participants
Course Fee: $395 per participant
Materials: Not Included
Course Description
Persian miniature painting is a centuries-old art form celebrated for its intricate details, elegant compositions, and rich storytelling. Originating in Persia, it combines delicate linework, refined brush techniques, and decorative patterns to create timeless works of art that continue to inspire artists around the world.
This 10-session in-person group course is designed for beginners who are passionate about learning this traditional art from the ground up. Through live demonstrations, guided practice, and personalized feedback in a small-group setting, you'll build a strong foundation in Persian miniature drawing, brushwork, and traditional painting techniques while developing the confidence to create your own artwork.
Flexible Start Date — Join Anytime!
There's no need to wait for a new course to begin. Students can join at any time and complete their 10-session program at their own pace. Each participant follows a structured curriculum with personalized guidance, allowing students at different stages of learning to work together in a welcoming and supportive studio environment.
Whether you have no previous artistic experience or are looking to explore a new artistic tradition, this course offers an inspiring opportunity to discover the beauty of Persian miniature painting.
10-Session Course Curriculum
Session 1 — Introduction to Persian Miniature Line Drawing
Learn the fundamental line techniques that form the foundation of Persian miniature art.
Session 2 — Drawing Hands, Feet & Decorative Vessels
Practice drawing hands, feet, and traditional decorative dishes and vessels commonly found in Persian miniature compositions.
Session 3 — Introduction to Human Figure Drawing
Learn the principles of constructing elegant human figures in the Persian miniature style.
Session 4 — Introduction to Traditional Brushwork
Develop brush control and learn the traditional outlining techniques used in Persian miniature painting.
Session 5 — Paper Preparation & Pattern Transfer
Learn how to size your paper and transfer your final composition using traditional tracing techniques.
Session 6 — Introduction to Painting & Colour Mixing
Learn the fundamentals of traditional Persian miniature painting, including paint preparation, colour mixing, and the application of base colours to your composition.
Session 7 — Garment Detailing & Decorative Patterns
Paint garments while learning traditional decorative motifs and pattern techniques.
Session 8 — Painting Outlines & Refinement
Refine your composition through traditional outlining techniques and strengthen the definition of your artwork.
Session 9 — Painting Facial Features
Learn how to paint facial features and refine the individual components that bring Persian miniature figures to life.
Session 10 — Final Details & Course Completion
Complete your artwork with finishing touches and review the techniques learned throughout the course.
Flexible Enrollment & Attendance Policy
Students may begin the program at any time and complete their 10 sessions by attending Saturday classes.
Each student progresses through the curriculum individually, with personalized instruction and guidance.
Registration includes 10 guided sessions.
Regular attendance is encouraged to maintain learning progress.
If you cannot attend a scheduled class, please provide at least 24 hours' advance notice so your session can be carried forward.
Sessions missed without 24 hours' advance notice will be counted as attended.
Course fees are non-refundable once registration is confirmed.
Required Materials
Students are expected to bring the following materials to their classes:
A4 printer paper (for practice exercises)
Tracing paper
A firm drawing surface, such as an MDF clipboard or drawing board
Mechanical pencil (0.5 mm or 0.7 mm, HB lead recommended)
Eraser
Multicolour gouache paint set
Watercolour paint set
Hot-pressed watercolour paper (300 gsm)
A smooth glossy stone (such as an egg-shaped polishing stone) for burnishing, or an agate burnisher (if available)
Winsor & Newton watercolour brushes:
Size 000
Size 00
Size 1
Size 2
One wide flat brush (1 inch or larger)
Wheat starch or corn starch (for paper sizing)
A detailed supply guide, including recommended brands and examples, will be provided upon registration.
Continue Your Journey
Students who successfully complete this course and wish to further develop their skills are invited to join the Persian Miniature Studio.
Designed as an ongoing in-person studio program, these weekly sessions provide a supportive environment where students can continue unfinished artwork, begin new compositions, refine their techniques, and receive personalized guidance while progressing at their own pace.
By the end of this course, you'll have developed a strong foundation in the traditional techniques of Persian miniature painting and completed your own artwork while gaining the confidence to continue your artistic journey in this timeless and intricate art form.
Continue Your Journey
Students who successfully complete this course and wish to further develop their skills are invited to join the Persian Miniature Studio.
Designed as an ongoing in-person studio program, these weekly sessions provide a supportive environment where students can continue unfinished artwork, begin new compositions, refine their techniques, and receive personalized guidance while progressing at their own pace.
By the end of this course, you'll have developed a strong foundation in the traditional techniques of Persian miniature painting and completed your own artwork while gaining the confidence to continue your artistic journey in this timeless and intricate art form.
Meet Your Instructor
Sara Kazemi is a Toronto-based Persian miniature artist, instructor, and founder of Cypress Shadows Art Studio. Originally from Isfahan, Iran—a city renowned for its rich artistic heritage—Sara began studying Persian miniature painting in her early teens and has maintained a deep connection to this traditional art form throughout her life.
Her work is inspired by the elegance, storytelling, intricate patterns, and delicate techniques found in classical Persian miniatures. Through her teaching, Sara is committed to preserving these time-honoured methods while making them welcoming and accessible to today’s students.
With a patient and detailed approach, she guides students through drawing, fine brushwork, colour application, and decorative detailing. She believes practicing Persian miniature painting can be both a creative journey and a calming, meditative way to connect with centuries of artistic tradition.