Experience the ancient art of Arabic Calligraphy and its healing qualities, as taught by instructor Aiyah Sibay.
Each calligraphic session begins with somatic breathwork and meditation. You will then be led through exercises that will teach you the technical foundations of Arabic calligraphy while also allowing you to explore the artistic qualities of the craft. This workshop offers a feminine approach to a predominantly masculine medium, so we will be learning the basics of a traditional art form in a non-traditional manner. We'll end with a reading of poetry from the MENA region and instructions for long-term practice for anyone wishing to continue! Your ticket includes a complimentary tea or coffee from Cafe Cino.
What makes calligraphy a healing art?
Through this medium, we learn to understand and speak the language of our hands. Calligraphy demands a very particular form of engagement, and much of our emotions are released through our hands. In each workshop, I work closely with each artist, drawing attention to their hands and their manner of moving and holding the calligraphic pen. We also work with natural material (reed) imported from the Middle East and grown by the river, which lends itself to the slow healing process that unfolds in calligraphy. Both I and the students I have worked with have used calligraphy to work through very difficult periods of our lives, and I believe some may find this class particularly helpful if they are passing through a challenging time.