ARAB 16
The Art of Writing: Introduction to Arabic and Japanese Calligraphy Winter 2025

Calligraphy is an art of elegant penmanship closely connected to philosophy, spirituality, literature, and poetry. This course introduces you to two different traditions of calligraphy, Arabic and Japanese, exploring their distinct characteristics as well as similarities. How has master-apprentice learning shaped each? How are different aesthetics valued in each? And what are the themes and ideas shared between these two different traditions? In our classes, we will have short lectures on historical, cultural, philosophical, and spiritual backgrounds of Arabic and Japanese calligraphy as well as material dimensions of the two traditions. You will also be introduced to the execution of lettering with traditional tools, exploring self-expression through the art of writing. In class (6 hours per week), you will engage in hands-on activities, learning the basic techniques of Arabic and Japanese calligraphy. Through this course, you will learn to use calligraphy as a meditation tool, one that cultivates inner focus and attention to breathing and bodily movements. Outside class, you will be required to practice daily ten-minute calligraphy meditation sessions. Evaluation for this course is based on attendance at each session, a final calligraphy work, and in-class presentation on the piece. No previous knowledge of Arabic/Japanese or experience with calligraphy is required for this course. The class is open to students interested in both/either of two calligraphy traditions.