GENERAL INFORMATION

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.

This is a 38-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.

• Course Title: Introduction to Maghribi Script
• Course Schedule:
  Sep 6 – Dec 20, 2024
  [Break]
  Jan 10 – Feb 21, 2025
  [Break]
  April 11 – May 23, 2025
  [Break]
  June 13 – August 1, 2025
• Time: 6 PM UTC Friday
• Course Format: Online
• Prerequisites: None
• Price: $850
• Instructor: Badr Essaihi
• Installment plans available through PayPal and customer’s credit card.

Registration has ended. Thank you for your interest.

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.

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.

• 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