Diptaş’s work draws inspiration from traditional Turkish illumination art (tezhip), rooted in Ottoman and Islamic cultural traditions. Her intricately hand-painted miniatures reinterpret this centuries-old art form, giving it a modern perspective and highlighting its relevance in the 21st century.

“My aim is to introduce art and history enthusiasts in Türkiye and abroad to the beauty of tezhip and calligraphy (hat). Illumination should not remain confined to museums or manuscripts—it deserves a place in modern homes and on the international art scene,” says the artist Gülhisa Diptaş.

Tezhip, or gilding, is an Islamic decorative art characterized by golden floral and geometric patterns used to embellish manuscripts—especially the Qur’an and poetry collections—symbolizing divine light and universal harmony. Closely linked to Islamic calligraphy, tezhip flourished in the Ottoman Empire between the 15th and 17th centuries, created by court artists known as nakkash.

On Saturday, 1 November at 12:00, visitors are invited to join the artist’s workshop introducing the basics of the tezhip technique. Participation fee: €10 per person; advance registration required by phone +371 67181465 or email jugendstils@riga.lv.

The exhibition is open during regular museum hours, 10:00–18:00 daily except Mondays, until 2 December 2025.