The Art of Arabic Calligraphy: A Cultural Journey

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About

Step into the timeless beauty of Arabic calligraphy in this immersive, hands-on introduction session, The Art of Calligraphy: A Cultural Journey. Rooted in centuries of tradition, Arabic calligraphy is more than just beautiful writing—it’s an expression of culture, spirituality, and artistic discipline.

Participants will have the rare opportunity to learn the basics of traditional Arabic calligraphy using authentic tools: bamboo and reed pens (qalam), calligraphy ink, lika (silk thread used to control ink flow), leather mats, and specialized calligraphy paper. You'll experience the elegant rhythm of writing letters the classical way—where every stroke is intentional and every form has meaning.

Led by an experienced calligrapher, this session begins with a brief introduction to the history and styles of Arabic calligraphy, including Riqa, Diwani, Naskh, and Thuluth scripts. Participants will be guided through the proper way to hold the pen, prepare ink, and write the foundational shapes of Arabic letters.

This event is open to all levels—no previous experience in Arabic or calligraphy is required. All materials will be provided, and attendees will leave with their own hand-lettered calligraphy piece to take home.

What to expect:

-A live demonstration of traditional Arabic calligraphy

-Guided practice with bamboo and reed pens

-Insight into calligraphy tools and their cultural significance

-An opportunity to connect with Islamic and Arabic heritage

Whether you’re an art lover, a language enthusiast, or simply curious about Islamic artistic traditions, this workshop offers a unique cultural experience that connects the past and present through the art of the written word.

Join us and discover how ink, pen, and paper can transform into timeless expressions of beauty.

Organizer

Bilal Shahid

Bilal Shahid is a dedicated student and practitioner of Arabic calligraphy having background

in both the art and academic aspects of this traditional craft. He is currently learning traditional Arabic scripts from a master calligrapher, through a nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating, transmitting, and preserving the visual and aural Islamic Arts.

Bilal’s training in calligraphy includes a workshop on Turkish Calligraphy Masterclass

conducted by the famous calligrapher Ferhat Kurlu at the Muslim Fest 2024 in Mississauga

where he learnt the use of traditional tools and techniques. In addition, he has completed

online certificate courses in Islamic Calligraphy: An Introduction to the Art of Handwriting

designed by Universiti Malaya and Learning Italic Calligraphy by Ina Saltz, which has

provided him with a comprehensive foundation in different calligraphic styles.

His passion for Islamic arts and history was significantly influenced by Dr. Nadhra Shahbaz

Khan, an Associate Professor of Art and Architectural History and Director of the Gurmani

Centre for Languages and Literature at the Lahore University of Management Sciences in

Pakistan. Through his studies under Dr. Khan, Bilal gained profound insights into Islamic arts,

Mughal history, and Lahore architecture. This import of cultural fusion brings immense diversity to the Canadian society, especially in the growing community in Brant region.

In addition to his interest in calligraphy, Bilal Shahid is a renewable energy specialist, working

as a full-time professional engineer. He also served as a part-time faculty member at the

School of Trades and Apprenticeship at Conestoga College, where he brings his technical

skills to teach post-secondary students in the classroom.

Bilal’s multifaceted background enriches his approach to teaching Arabic calligraphy,

combining technical precision with a deep appreciation of historical and cultural contexts.