Stone sculptor McAlistair Hood is working with British Islamic Gardens (BIG) in Reading to create one of the UK’s first stone carving studio workshops that is entirely dedicated to Islamic Art.

Active Islamic stone carving projects in the UK are almost nonexistent presently. So we are hugely privileged to have this opportunity to help to start something new, right here in Reading.

We aim to create a permanent studio workshop in the garden where Islamic art stone carving can be designed and created.

Beginning in June 2022, BIG Volunteers have been learning the basic stone carving skills they will need to contribute to the Islamic decoration of a stone garden bench that we are constructing. The bench will be placed in the Aisha Masjid garden in Reading for worshippers there to enjoy.

The centre also offers 2 and 5 days’ stone carving courses to any member of the public who would like to create Islamic art upon stone

In keeping with the McAlistair Hood environmental policy, no newly quarried or mined stone will be used by students, or in the creation of the garden bench. All stone will be saved or salvaged. This does not mean to say that the stone used will be inferior quality.

Additionally, where possible the transportation of stone to the garden will be by non-motorised bicycle and trailer.

Go to the McAlistair Hood website to find out more https://mcalistairhood.artweb.com/british-islamic-gardens-residency-