The Letter Waw | Ottoman Architectural Calligraphy | Gulnaz Mahboob

The Letter Waw | Ottoman Architectural Calligraphy | Gulnaz Mahboob

This workshop introduces participants to the visual and symbolic significance of the letter waw in Ottoman calligraphy, drawing inspiration from the architectural forms of Bursa Ulu Cami. Led by Gulnaz Mahboob, the session explores how the waw motif appears in sacred space and ornamentation, before guiding participants towards developing their own calligraphic composition.

Through a structured and hands-on format, participants will be introduced to the architectural presence of the waw, observe a live demonstration using traditional tools and proportion systems, and then work step by step on their own mounted composition.

Date: Saturday, 16 May 2026
Time: 11–2 PM
Venue: Yunus Emre Institute, 10 Maple Street, London W1T 5HA
Fee (all materials provided): £50
Capacity: Max. 12 participants
Instructor: Gulnaz Mahboob

Suitable For

Open to all levels.

Age requirement: This workshop has age restrictions (16+). Please check individual event details before booking.

Materials

All materials provided.

Learning Objectives

Participants will:

• Explore the visual and symbolic significance of the letter waw in Ottoman calligraphy
• Learn about the architectural inspiration of Bursa Ulu Cami and its ornamental language
• Observe a live demonstration of writing with traditional tools and proportion systems
• Develop their own calligraphic composition using qalam, ink, and prepared guidelines
• Complete a mounted piece informed by Ottoman architectural aesthetics

After the Workshop

Participants will leave with a finished waw composition mounted on board.

About the Instructor

Gulnaz Mahboob is a Master Calligraphy (Hattat) and tutor from London, England. Gulnaz Mahboob was authorised and classically trained in Istanbul by the renowned Grand Master Hasan Çelebi.

She holds an MA in Social Anthropology from SOAS, University of London and a BA in Communication studies with Graphic Arts& Illustration from Anglia Ruskin University

Instagram: @gulnazmahboob

Workshop Policies and Guidelines

• The workshop is primarily taught in English, but some terminology may be in Turkish. Your instructor will clarify any terms or concepts as needed during the class.
• For your safety and comfort, we recommend avoiding wearing loose clothing, especially items with large cuffs and neckties, during classes.
• While the Institute strives to maintain a safe learning environment, students are reminded that they are solely responsible for the security of their personal belongings. The Institute assumes no liability for any loss or damage to personal items incurred during course activities.
• The Institute endeavors to maintain a conducive learning environment by ensuring that courses meet a minimum enrollment. If this requirement is not met by the end of the registration period, the Institute reserves the right to cancel the course/ workshop one day prior to its scheduled start. In such cases, any course fees paid by enrolled students will be promptly refunded in full. Refunds will be processed to the student’s designated bank account, unless the course was purchased online, in which case refunds will be issued via PayPal.
• Applicants can withdraw their application without incurring any charges up until the commencement date of the workshop. No refunds will be issued for withdrawals made after the day of the workshop.
• Photography and videos may be taken during classes for archival and promotional purposes. Your participation in the class implies consent for us to use these materials. If you prefer not to be photographed or filmed, please inform your instructor.
• Your feedback is valuable to us. If you have any suggestions or concerns regarding the class structure or content, please feel free to discuss them with your instructor, the administrative staff or the coordinator at londra@yee.org.tr

By enrolling in the course, students acknowledge their understanding and acceptance of the aforementioned terms and conditions.