Hajj Wafaa will give an overview and demonstration of Arabic calligraphy.

Wednesday, February 21
Time: Noon
Bush Room (10-105)

A freelance calligrapher, Mr. Wafaa has taught Arabic calligraphy classes in Boston since 2004, including at the Center for Arabic Culture in Somerville.

Originally from Iraq, Mr. Wafaa became a refugee during the first Gulf War in 1991. He lived in a refugee camp in Saudi Arabia for 6 years.  There he spent 12 hours a day practicing calligraphy on scraps of paper – with ink he made from crushed berries and pens he made from sticks of wood.  His calligraphy practice helped him survive. Writing ancient surahs (verses) from the Quran brought him a sense of well-being and spiritual strength. It gave him hope.

Following the presentation, students will have an opportunity to ask Mr. Wafaa to write their names in Arabic calligraphy.

Sponsored by MIT Global Languages

Open to MIT community. Refreshments will be serived.