About this Event
An Introduction to Arabic Calligraphy workshop is a hands-on, beginner-friendly exploratory session that discusses the rich history, foundational rules, and meditative art of traditional Arabic script. No prior experience or knowledge of the Arabic language is required to join.
What you will learn:
Historical Overview Discover the evolution of Arabic writing into a fine art form and the cultural significance of classical scripts.
Traditional Tools Learn how to properly hold, cut, and care for a traditional reed pen (qalam), prepare the inkwell, and select appropriate glossy paper.
The Dot System Master the proportional scaling and measurements used to achieve balance and harmony in classic letterforms.
Materials and supplies are provided, and all skill levels are welcome!
About the Artist: Drawn to the mysterious and elegant forms of classical Arabic calligraphy, Khalid Casado, found himself scouring the internet to learn more. His search led him to meet the esteemed Nuria Garcia Masip, who had trained with the best artists in this field. Meeting her opened up doors to worlds that he could have never imagined. After six years of training, traveling and relentlessly practicing, he received his icacet, or license, in Istanbul.
Now a master in his own right, Khalid brings a unique perspective to the art of Arabic calligraphy. Khalid pours over the details of compositions and plays with lines and dots, poetry and sacred verse, in unexpected ways, but always maintaining the integrity of the classical form, in letter and manner.
Khalid teaches and exhibits internationally. You can view his works most recently at exhibitions such as the Biennial in Sharjah, Medina in Saudi Arabia, Barcelona, Washington DC and most recently Mexico City.
About the Tennessee Language Center(TLC):TLC focuses on language learning, teaching and services for the public, businesses and private citizens. We promote intercultural communication in Tennessee and around the globe.
About Reed Society:The (RSSA) works with a global network of artists and musicians to nurture the cultural, intellectual, and spiritual wisdom woven into sacred art forms. The Reed Society's work serves not only as a platform for cultural preservation but also as a source of healing and reconnection for diverse populations, particularly diaspora communities, immigrants, and refugees seeking to engage with their heritage.
In collaboration with leading artists and institutions, our organization curates a rich array of programs — including hands-on workshops, immersive retreats, musical performances, academic lectures, and exhibitions. The Reed Society’s work spans disciplines such as Arabic and Ottoman calligraphy, Islamic illumination (tazhib/tehzib), sacred geometry, and traditional music forms such as Qawwali and Sufi-inspired vocal traditions.
The Reed Society has partnered with organizations such as the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art, The Walters Art Museum, The Kennedy Center, and major universities including Harvard, George Washington University and Stanford.
Keep the connection alive — Join our newsletter for upcoming Reed Society programs and events.
Event venue & nearby stays
Tennessee Language Center, 193 Polk Avenue, Nashville, United States
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