Leicester: Introduction to Arabic Calligraphy Workshop

Join calligrapher Esma Ceylan for an introduction to the art of Arabic calligraphy as part of the Takhleeq Leicester Exhibition.
About this Event

Leicester: Introduction to Arabic Calligraphy Workshop

Part of the Takhleeq Exhibition

Join calligrapher Esma Ceylan for an introduction to the art of Arabic calligraphy. In this hands-on practical workshop, you will learn the basics of letter forms, and the traditional way of writing with a Qalam (reed pen) and ink.

Guided step by step, you will practice simple strokes, experiment with forms and letters before practicing writing a phrase. You will be taught the Thuluth script in this workshop.

All materials are included for your use in the workshop.

The session is suitable for both beginners and those with some calligraphy experience.

The workshop is part of the Takhleeq Leicester exhibition 'Oh My God', taking place at StudionAme from Saturday 25th July to Sunday 26th July.

Workshop Content

* A brief introduction to the art of Islamic calligraphy

* An introduction to the tools and materials used in calligraphy

* A short live demonstration by the artist

* A guided session where participants will practise basic letter forms

Date: Saturday 25th July

Time: 10.30am – 12noon

Venue: StudionAme, 2 Brougham Street, Leicester, LE1 2BA

Entry: £24.50

Parking: parking is available on nearby residential streets, or St George's Retail Park (3 hours free parking)

Please note the workshop is limited to a maximum of 10 participants to allow everyone to have one-to-one time with the instructor.

Artist biography:

Esma Ceylan is a Turkish-Islamic calligraphy artist. A graduate of the Faculty of Theology at Ondokuz Mayıs University, she began her calligraphy training in 2020 under the master calligrapher Mustafa Cemil Efe and completed her ijazah in Thuluth, Jali Thuluth, Naskh, and Riq’a scripts. For the past six years, Ceylan has been based in the United Kingdom, where she continues her artistic practice. She has participated in two group exhibitions in London and has led calligraphy workshops, sharing the tradition of classical Turkish-Islamic calligraphy with diverse audiences. Her work explores themes of the Divine Word, patience, harmony, and contemplation through the timeless aesthetics of classical Islamic calligraphy.

Please note:

Tickets are non-refundable. If you are unable to attend, you may transfer your ticket to another person by contacting us before the event. No refunds will be issued unless the event is cancelled by the organiser.