About the Book
In 2024, artist Tanja E. Algra joined the online challenge "30 Patterns in 30 Days", organised by the Global Centre of Islamic Art. What began as a daily exercise in constructing a geometric pattern grew into an intensive art project that occupied her for almost a year.
This book follows that journey. Using only compass, ruler and pencil, Tanja E. Algra built each pattern from a classical geometric construction, then transformed it into a finished artwork through colour, rhythm, texture and personal interpretation.
Alongside the completed pieces, the book reveals the process behind them: sketches, intermediate stages, technical choices, failed attempts, discoveries and sources of inspiration.
“30 Days 30 Patterns” is not only the record of an artistic challenge, but also a tribute to the beauty of geometry, to centuries-old visual traditions, and to the joy of creating.
This book follows that journey. Using only compass, ruler and pencil, Tanja E. Algra built each pattern from a classical geometric construction, then transformed it into a finished artwork through colour, rhythm, texture and personal interpretation.
Alongside the completed pieces, the book reveals the process behind them: sketches, intermediate stages, technical choices, failed attempts, discoveries and sources of inspiration.
“30 Days 30 Patterns” is not only the record of an artistic challenge, but also a tribute to the beauty of geometry, to centuries-old visual traditions, and to the joy of creating.
Author website
Features & Details
- Primary Category: Fine Art
- Additional Categories Portfolios, Coffee Table Books
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Project Option: Large Format Landscape, 13×11 in, 33×28 cm
# of Pages: 68 - Publish Date: Jun 01, 2026
- Language English
- Keywords Hand-made, Patterns, Art, Geometry
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About the Creator
Tanja E. Algra is a Dutch painter living in the north of the Netherlands. After a journey to Morocco, her work became increasingly focused on geometric patterns. What began as an interest in the decay and beauty of historic mosaic floors gradually developed into a fascination with the mathematical construction of geometric patterns, particularly those found in Islamic art. Her aim is to create an original visual language inspired by these traditions, rather than simply producing a decorative pattern that might resemble a bathroom floor.
