Call for Applications: First Cohort, Autumn 2026

The Diploma Programme

The Naqsh School of Crafts is seeking applications to join its first cohort of full-time students this autumn in an exciting new Diploma Programme, designed and delivered by The King's Foundation School of Traditional Arts in collaboration with the ACDF.

Applications close Sunday 28 August. The first day of class is Monday 5 October 2026.

Apply Now How to Apply
<p>The Diploma Programme</p>

About the Programme

Theoretical and Practical Education in Traditional Arts

The Diploma Programme offers theoretical and practical education in traditional arts, with a focus on the rich architectural heritage of Uzbekistan.

The principles of beauty and harmony form the basis of a rich curriculum of practice-based research, traditional skills development, and creativity.

About the Programme
  • Format

    A two-year, full-time, accredited course

  • Academic Year

    Three terms of eight weeks each

  • Attendance

    Daily during term time, 9:00-17:00

  • Tuition Fee

    $2,500

  • First Day of Class

    Monday 5 October 2026

The Three Core Modules

From the Order of Nature to Applied Craft

The programme is structured around three core modules that support the student to develop both as a designer and as a maker. Each module brings together a family of taught courses.

  1. 1

    Introduction: The Order of Nature as the Source of Traditional Arts

    • Principles of Order, Symmetry, Proportion, and Harmony

      • The Order of Nature

      • Introduction to Geometry

      • Introduction to Biomorphic Ornamentation

    • Painting: Methods and Materials

      • Pigments

      • Colour Harmony

    • Analytical Studies Through Drawing

      • Site Drawing

      • Composition: Integration of Decorative Elements within Architectural Design

  2. 2

    The Language of the Arts and Crafts of Uzbekistan

    • Geometry

      • The Geometry of Central Asia

      • Geometry: Composition

    • Biomorphic Ornamentation

      • Biomorphic Ornament of Central Asia

      • Biomorph: Composition

  3. 3

    The Application of the Arts and Crafts of Uzbekistan

    • Ceramics and Brickwork

      • Tile Making: Pressed and Cut Tiles

      • Tile Decorating: Cuerda Seca, Painted Tiles, Lustre

      • Calligraphy and Architecture

    • Decorative Painting

      • Pigments

      • Binders

      • Techniques

    • Woodwork

      • Chip Carving

      • Inlay

      • Fretwork and Screens

    • Project Work

      • The Heritage Project

      • The Final Project

Diploma Programme Course Schedule

Term 1 5 October – 11 December Term 2 11 January – 5 March Term 3 29 March – 21 May
Year 1 The Order of Nature Introduction to Geometry Introduction to Biomorphic Ornament Painting Methods and Materials: Pigments and Colour Harmony Biomorphic Ornament of Central Asia Analytical Studies Through Drawing Tile Making: Pressed Tiles Woodworking: Chip Carving and Inlay Calligraphy and Architecture Tile Decorating: Cuerda Secca Heritage Project
Year 2 — TBC Year 2 — TBC Year 2 — TBC
Year 2 Geometry of Central Asia Geometry: Composition Biomorph: Composition Tile Decorating: Painted and Lustre Tile Making: Cut Tiles Decorative Painting Woodworking: Fretwork and Screens Composition: Integration of Decorative Elements Final Project
  • Introduction: The Order of Nature as the Source of Traditional Arts
  • The Language of the Arts and Crafts of Uzbekistan
  • The Application of the Arts and Crafts of Uzbekistan

*Exact sequence of delivery may vary.

How to Apply

Applicants of All Backgrounds and Experiences Are Welcome

The application consists of two elements, submitted together no later than Friday 28 August.

1

A Brief Personal Statement

Approximately 250 words, one page.

  • Explain your interest in traditional arts.
  • Describe any previous experience with traditional arts.
  • State what you hope to gain from the Diploma Programme.
2

Images of Your Artwork

A maximum of 10 images.

  • Where possible, select images that show your interest or skill in traditional design or materials.
  • Images may be shared as JPGs or PDFs.
Apply Now Contact Admissions

How Admission Works

  1. 1

    Apply

    Submit your application by Sunday 28 August.

  2. 2

    Online interview

    3-4 September, up to 25 applicants invited.

  3. 3

    Offers & registration

    Offers by 9 September · registration 10-25 September.

  4. 4

    First class

    Monday 5 October.

  1. Year One Term Dates

    Year Two dates to be confirmed

  2. Term 1

    5 October - 11 December

  3. Term 2

    11 January - 5 March

  4. Term 3

    29 March - 21 May