Introduction to Maghribi Script
GENERAL INFORMATION
This is a 18-week-long course that introduces students to the Maghribi script. Students will learn Maghribi calligraphy in the Marinid style and how it is an excellent opportunity to revive this unique calligraphy and spread it worldwide on its correct origins and rules.
Subject: Arabic Calligraphy
Course Format: Online
Course Schedule:
- Sep 5 – Dec 19, 2025
- [Eid Break]
- Jan 9 – Jan 16, 2026
Time: Fridays, 4 p.m. UTC. (click to convert to local time zone)
(The time of the class is subject to change)
Prerequisites: None
Instructor: Badr Essaihi
Course Fee:
- Early bird: $369 (until June 7)
- Regular: $427
ABOUT THE COURSE
The Andalusian Moroccan Calligraphy is a script that originated in Andalusia in the 10th century AD and spread in Morocco and the rest of North Africa. Originally derived from the Kairouanese Kufic, this script is used mainly for writing the Qur’an due to the clarity and beauty of its letters. This calligraphy combines hard (dry) movements derived from the Kufic script and soft movements derived primarily from circular movements.
The styles of this calligraphy varied in different ages. In this course, we chose to teach the style that dates back to the Marinid era (BC.13 AD) due to its letters’ beauty, clarity, and grace, following the finest models written in this era.
One of the most important things we repeat to the students’ ears is to have fun while learning without anticipating the result sooner. The lesson is on the journey and then on the outcome.
Students will follow the classic approach to learning Arabic calligraphy in this course. They will start by getting acquainted with the literature on learning Arabic calligraphy and the tools; pen, ink, and paper. Students will then move to the study of vocabulary to finish writing the lines and pasteboards.
Learning Moroccan calligraphy in the Marinid style is an excellent opportunity to revive this unique calligraphy and spread it on its correct origins and rules.
ESTIMATED TIME COMMITMENT
Students are expected to allocate a minimum of 10 hours per week to attend live online classes, practice, and prepare their lessons for submission.
90% PRACTICE & 10% THEORY
In the first few classes, Ustadh Badr will discuss the theory and philosophy behind this script, materials, and how to prepare your homework.
REQUIRED MATERIALS
- Students can buy supplies from the Islamic Art Supplies (click to view) store.
- Reed or Meatal (preferred) Qalam; size 1.5 mm / 2 mm
- Felt or leather pad for under your paper
- Arabic calligraphy paper ( alternative: glossy laser printer paper)
- Ink (brown, red, blue, green, & orange)
- lika, and Inkwell
- Leather handrest (other materials are also acceptable)
- Knife for sharpening the qalam (kalem terash, Olfa cutters, or Olfa heavy-duty cutters)
- Maqta’: for cutting the nib of the qalam. Scissors can be used as well.
- Fine sandpaper (1200-2000 grade)
ABOUT OUR INSTRUCTOR
Badr Essaihi
Ustaadh Badr Essaihi, from Morocco, graduated from the prestigious Academy of Traditional Arts in Casablanca and is currently pursuing his Master’s degree in the Turkish Traditional Arts Department at the Fatih Sultan Mehmet University in Istanbul.
Ustaadh Badr Essaihi, from Morocco, graduated from the prestigious Academy of Traditional Arts in Casablanca and is currently pursuing his Master’s degree in the Turkish Traditional Arts Department at the Fatih Sultan Mehmet University in Istanbul. Ustaadh Badr has also completed the six Ottoman scripts with Master teachers Haytham Salmo and Davut Bektaş.
Along with researching the history and styles of Maghribî and Andalusî scripts, Ustaadh Badr participates in several national and international calligraphy exhibitions and conferences.
