Learn the art of Islamic calligraphy at the Yunus Emre Institute this autumn

NEWS/UK

Calligraphy is the beautiful art of writing. This decorative art form combines visual aesthetics with the precision and functionality of hand-drawn letters created using pens or brushes.

One of the most renowned forms is Islamic or hat (an Arabic word that means line) calligraphy, an artistic practice that is derived from the Arabic alphabet and Islamic cultural heritage. You can see examples of Islamic calligraphy in books, mosques, carpets, tiles and more, from Spain through to China – anywhere touched by the Islamic world.

The art form flourished under the Ottomans and from 3^rd October, Londoners have the chance to learn Hüsnühat calligraphy at the Yunus Emre Institute. Places on the eight-week course are limited so early registration is advised.

There are two weekly sessions on Saturdays in central London, one catering for beginners, the other for continuing students who have already completed an introductory Hüsnühat course. Both are run by Gulnaz Fatima Mahboob, a qualified teacher and Islamic Calligrapher (hattat), authorised and classically trained in Istanbul by renowned Master Calligrapher Hasan Celebi.

Gulnaz Fatima Mahboob offers a practical introduction to Islamic/Arabic writing and provides participants a step-by-step guide to writing the Arabic letters. Students will be shown how to construct each letter through basic strokes and learn the traditional practice, tools and materials used for Hüsnühat.

They will be given an insight into the traditional methods with the emphasis on physical hand instruction and demonstrations. Students will explore and experiment with the relevant tools and materials, including learning to cut and prepare a traditional reed qalam (calligraphy pen), as well as to analyse the measurements for Arabic letters, practice pen angles, both thick and thin strokes, and progress through to shapes.

The course is open to people of all abilities and background, including those who have an interest in writing. No knowledge of written or spoken Arabic is required. Participants with prior experience of calligraphy can attend.

Course dates: 3rd October - 28th November 2015 (there are no classes on Saturday 14th November).

Times (8 weeks / 24 hours in total):

v      Introductory class: Saturdays, 10:00 am to 1:00 pm

v      Beginners (continuing students) class: Saturdays 2:00 to 5:00 pm

Location: Yunus Emre Institute Turkish Cultural Centre, 10 Maple Street London, W1T 5HA (nearest tube stations: Warren Street or Goodge Street)

Course fee: £ 150.00 – includes all course materials.

Applicants must pay 50% (£75.00) of their course fee by the registration deadline of Monday 28th September to secure their places.

More information and application form: email turkishinstitute@gmail.com or call Mrs. Emel Albayrak on 0207 387 3036.