Arabic Calligraphy: A Journey into 2D Sculpting with Dr. Nihad Dukhan

Arabic Calligraphy: A Journey into 2D Sculpting with Dr. Nihad Dukhan

"The process of producing Arabic calligraphy letters that possess life-like forms resembles “sculpting in two dimensions.”

Hosted by the Reed Society for the Sacred Arts.

in us for an inspiring private calligraphy workshop led by Dr. Nihad Dukhan, a master of Arabic calligraphy and explore the symphony of nature, arts, and spirituality.

This intimate session will introduce participants to the art and philosophy of Arabic calligraphy. Participants will have the unique opportunity to learn directly from a certified master calligrapher and with an option to join online training sessions under the guidance of Dr. Dukhan.

All materials will be provided.

Light refreshments will provided.

This workshop is designed to offer a serene, creative space for reflection, connection, and artistic growth. No prior experience with Arabic is required — only an open heart and appreciation for beauty. People of all faiths and backgrounds are welcome.

About the Reed Society for the Sacred Arts (RSSA)

The Reed Society for the Sacred Arts (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 esteemed 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.

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About the Artist:

Nihad Dukhan is a certified master of Arabic calligraphy and a professor of mechanical engineering. He received his Ijazah (master of calligraphy degree) in Thuluth and Naskh styles from Istanbul grand master calligrapher Hasan Çelebi in 2009, and in Taliq style in 2013 from master calligrapher Mohamed Zakariya. He studied the two styles Dewanee and Dewani Jali with Abdul Razzak Qaraqash. He also studied Taliq Jali with Mustafa Parıldar and Riqaa’ with Mahfod Thunnon. Dukhan has developed his personal modern form of Arabic calligraphy around 1989. His work has been exhibited and sold around the world. Professor Dukhan is active in promoting Arabic/Islamic calligraphy and increasing people’s awareness of its cultural significance through exhibits, lectures and workshops.