General Info

• Subject: Arabic Calligraphy
• Course Format: Online
• Course Schedule: Fall 2023: (September 6, 2023 – December 13, 2023[Break]Winter 2023: (January 10, 2024 – February 28, 2024) 
• Time: 3:30 AM UTC
• Prerequisites: None
• Instructor: Badr Essaihi
• Scholarship Application Form [click to access]

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.

Curriculum & Teaching Approach for Maghribi Mabsut Calligraphy

23  sessions

• Six sessions for LETTERS 
• Six sessions for COMPOUND LETTERS
• Six sessions for LİNES AND PARAGRAPHS
• FIVE sessions for LEVHA TECHNİCS & FİNAL PROJECTS.

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.

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.

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)

Our Instructor

Originally from Morocco, Badr Hoca 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. 

He researched the history and styles of Maghribî & Andalusî scripts and participated in several national and international calligraphy exhibitions and conferences, he completed the six scripts with Haytham Salmo and Davut Bektaş Hocas.

Due to limited seating, we request that you cancel by July 22, 2023, to receive a full refund.

Maghribi Admin group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/GwVv2it5atYFk0q5I07Z5L

Maghrebi Chat: https://chat.whatsapp.com/HIg6yqEyTyj6If6R5K1tFT

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