Abstract Calligraphy Workshop at SQCC

On Friday, 28 June, SQCC hosted an Abstract Calligraphy Workshop with Omani calligrapher Saleh Al Shukairi. The all-day event begin with a lecture by Mr. Al Shukairi on the history of Arabic calligraphy (khatt). The lecture explored the development of Arabic calligraphy in the Middle East from the seventh century to the modern era, including details about some of the leading calligraphers in the region today. After a thorough introduction to the 28 letters of the Arabic alphabet, students quickly began to produce the writing system’s unique shapes and forms. Eager students learned about the proper measurement of the Arabic letters based on point size and began tracing the vowels and consonants onto paper and canvas using translucent paper. Following a quick lunch break, students experimented with acrylic paint brushing colorful backgrounds to accent their newly acquired calligraphy skills and pearls of wisdom imparted by Mr. Al Shukairi.