TEHRAN Based on the Art Council's proposal, the High Council of Cultural Revolution has approved the establishment of an evaluative council for traditional artists, craftsmen and writers, to be formed by the Cultural Heritage Organization (CHO).

The CHO reported that artists who have no university degree could receive qualifications from public or non-governmental foundations or from two recognized masters in their field, and their degrees would be equivalent to those of other artists and wage earners.

The degree courses will include calligraphy, miniatures, illumination, traditional painting, carpet design, engraving, metalwork, pottery, and making musical instruments. Carpet and kelim weaving, traditional clothing, inlaid work, plaster molding, and the renovation of historical monuments are other courses confirmed by High Council of Cultural Revolution.

The council members consist of the CHO director, the deputy for art from the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance, a member of the Organization of Management and Programming, the manager of traditional arts at the Cultural House of Art, and a professor of traditional arts.

According to the regulations, the artists must be proficient in one of the traditional arts, be knowledgeable about art in general, be creative and innovative in design.