Calligraphy Course | In-Person | Introductory Level
Master the Art of Beautiful Writing in the Ottoman Tradition
Date: Mondays 23rd March – 1st June***
Time: 6 – 8:30 pm
Duration: 8 weeks
Fee: £295 (includes materials)
Class Size: Min. 4 – Max.10 Students
Instructor: Gulnaz Fatima Mahboob
Location: 10 Maple Street W1T 5HA (Nearest tube stations: Warren Street and Goodge Street).
*** There will be no classes on 6th April, 4th & 25th May as the Institute will be closed on Bank Holidays. Classes will be held on the following dates:
Entry Requirements
- You must be 18+ to attend the course.
- The course is open to people of all abilities and backgrounds including those who have an interest in writing.
- Prior experience in calligraphy is not necessary.
- No knowledge of written or spoken Arabic is required.
- Students are required to complete the form to register successfully.
Course Overview
The FACE-TO-FACE 8-week course introduces you to ‘Hüsn-i hat’ – the practice of beautiful writing according to the Ottoman tradition on Wednesdays. This is a practical introduction to Islamic/Arabic writing and provides participants with a step-by-step guide to writing the Arabic letters in the Nesih/Naskh script. This course will cover the historical perspective of Ottoman calligraphy and an overview of the traditional teaching methods and materials. Throughout the course, students will be guided by the master calligrapher Gulnaz Fatima Mahboob, an Islamic Calligrapher (hattat), authorised and classically trained in Istanbul by the renowned Grand Master Hasan Çelebi, with demonstrations and feedback.
Methods of Teaching
The course will be taught according to the traditional training and the educational model used in Istanbul, which has remained largely unchanged for hundreds of years.
Assessment & Certification
There will be an evaluation at the end of the course.
Students will receive a hand-out at the beginning of the course about the terms used in this art and feedback throughout the duration of the course to track improvement.
A digital certificate of attendance or completion will be provided to students upon request at the end of the term.
Required Equipment & Materials
For beginners, the Institute will provide the starter materials, except for a craft knife (maket bıçağı). Students must bring their own craft knife from the very first class.
For the course, the Institute will supply a bamboo qalam (reed pen), ink, makta (pen rest), silk, a small glass container for ink, and 15 sheets of paper.
If additional materials are needed, students may either source them independently or purchase them directly from the Institute (subject to availability).
Course Policies and Guidelines
Focus of the course: This is not an Arabic language or grammar course. The focus is on learning the form and aesthetic principles of the letters. It is the study of a traditional Islamic art: Hüsn-i Hat.
Language: The course is primarily taught in English, though some terminology may be in Turkish. Your instructor will clarify any terms or concepts as needed during the class.
Materials & equipment: Some classes may require specific tools (e.g. reed pen, ink, or paper). Please check the course requirements beforehand to ensure you have everything you need to participate fully.
Safety & comfort: Please avoid loose clothing (large cuffs, ties, etc.) during practical sessions.
Personal belongings: Students are responsible for their own items. The Institute cannot accept liability for any loss or damage.
Minimum numbers: Courses require a minimum number of participants. If this is not met, the Institute may cancel one day before the start date, with full refunds issued.
Withdrawals & refunds:
Withdrawals are accepted up until the start date with no charge.
After the course has begun, cancellations will incur a 25% administration fee.
No refunds will be issued after the completion of the second week of classes.
Rescheduling: Classes may be subject to cancellation or rescheduling due to unforeseen circumstances. We will inform you in advance and, if possible, provide alternative arrangements. Students are advised to keep two weeks free from the course end date.
Certificates: Certificates of attendance or completion may be provided upon request.
Photography & filming: Sessions may be photographed or filmed for archival and promotional purposes. Please inform your instructor if you prefer not to appear.
Communication: Any changes (e.g. time or date adjustments) will be communicated by email.
Feedback: Suggestions and concerns are always welcome. You may share them directly with your instructor, the administrative staff, or email us at londra@yee.org.tr.
By enrolling in the course, students acknowledge their understanding and acceptance of the above terms and conditions.
