Happy World Arabic Language Day! It has been the second time that Wejdan, a PhD candidate from School of Arts, English and Languages, to volunteer to facilitate the celebration of the World Arabic Language Day. Here is the summary of the celebration.
About Word Arabic Language Day (Click for more info)
World Arabic Language Day, celebrated annually on December 18, highlights Arabic as one of the world’s most widely spoken languages. Renowned for its role in the Islamic Golden Age as the language of science, philosophy, and art, this day serves to honour and promote the preservation of Arabic, showcasing its significance in fostering cultural diversity.
On December 13th, Queen’s Language Centre marked the occasion by hosting an engaging workshop on Arabic calligraphy in the Auditorium, McClay Library. I took pride in delivering this session, offering participants an opportunity to explore the rich history of Arabic calligraphy, understand its evolution, and practise writing their names using the elegant Naskh script.
The workshop began with an introduction to the cultural and artistic importance of Arabic calligraphy, particularly in Islamic art, architecture, and manuscript tradition. Participants were guided through the historical development of Arabic scripts, from Kufic to refined cursive styles such as Naskh and Thuluth. A visual timeline and carefully curated examples illustrated the scripts’ adaptability and aesthetic nuances.
Hands-on activities followed, where attendees practised fundamental strokes using calligraphy pens and templates. With step-by-step guidance, they learned to write their names in the Naskh script, gaining an appreciation for the precision and discipline required in the art form. The session concluded with an insightful discussion on the contemporary relevance of Arabic calligraphy, including its applications in digital design, art installations, and cross-cultural dialogue.
Post-workshop interactions were particularly gratifying. Many participants shared how the session deepened their appreciation for the intricacies of Arabic calligraphy, fostering a newfound respect for its artistic and cultural significance. These conversations reaffirmed my belief in art’s power to transcend boundaries and unite people.
Being part of this initiative was an immense honour, as it aligned with Queen’s University Belfast’s commitment to fostering cultural diversity and inclusivity. The event showcased the university’s dedication to providing spaces where individuals from varied backgrounds can come together to learn, connect, and grow. Attendees from a diverse background enthusiastically participated, sparking meaningful discussions on the interplay between language, culture, and art.
