National Portrait Gallery

Calligrapher Mustafa Ja’far leads a one-day workshop exploring the art of Arabic calligraphy. Using inks, paints and other media, indulge yourself in the brushstrokes and graphic beauty of Arabic lettering. All materials provided.

Mustafa Ja'far studied calligraphy for three years under one of the greatest Arab calligraphers of the twentieth century, as part of his painting and design studies in Iraq. He worked as an art director and creative director for more than fifteen years and in 1991 he established his own studio in London. He describes himself as ‘a visual art practitioner who found inspiration in Arabic calligraphy’.

The tutor will show you how to write letters and words using different writing implements, inks and paints.  You will then have the opportunity to produce works which you can take home.