Introduction to Amazigh Art

Please note: this event will be held in person and is open to all with an interest and respect for indigenous cultures and art

Join Rana for a workshop exploring Amazigh art, specifically tattoo art. The Amazigh/Imazighen (plural) are indigenous people in much of North Africa and the Canary Islands, with a documented history going back at least 10,000 years.

This workshop will primarily explore the tattoo art, styles, and symbols of Amazigh art. Tattooing has a long history for the Imazighen which is currently going through a revival with many young people getting Amazigh tattoos. Historically certain symbols marked significant life events (such as adulthood, marriage, birth of a child) as well as serving as a tool of healing for injuries, illnesses, and maladies. Nowadays their placement and style is often more flexible and personal and sometimes represents identity (especially in the diaspora).

In this workshop, Rana will share a bit of historical context and as a group we'll examine the traditional designs and symbols and their meanings and how these designs and symbols have been adapted by modern tattooing. Participants will make their own designs with charcoal and ink on card.

CW: The 5-10 minute introduction will include brief references to colonialism with a sentence about the historical kidnapping of women as brides by European colonisers.

Rana Noor Mohamed is a multi-ethnic, multi-lingual languages & cultures educator with a passion for indigenous cultures, histories, and art. Rana Noor will be drawing on her own experiences and knowledge informed by her Amazigh heritage as well as talking broadly about Amazigh art from around North Africa.

Learn more about Rana.

There will be 12 attendees maximum, and the event will feature comfort breaks. During this event, attendees will participate in: Talk / Lecture, Hands on activities

This event will take place at Glasgow Zine Library's space on Albert Road. You can find directions here.

You may be asked to wear a mask at this event.

If you have any questions or access requirements, please get in touch with us via [email protected]

All events will adhere to our safer spaces policy, which you can learn about here.

GZL pledges to support The Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel. As part of this pledge we may participate in strikes called in response to the ongoing genocide in Palestine. If this event falls on a strike day and is cancelled, we will work with event leaders to reschedule the event asap. Participants will also have the option of receiving an immediate refund for any ticket purchases and travel booked to attend.

After booking a ticket, you will be sent several reminder emails from Eventbrite leading up to the event. We will also send emails that share any resources that attendees will need access to, including any required materials.

Please email [email protected] with any queries or issues.

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