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Aishah Elinor Holland, a calligrapher specializing in Arabic and Latin scripts, will present “Islamic Calligraphy: Lifting the Veil” 7 p.m. Monday, March 5 in Limburg Theater. The lecture and slide show are free and open to the public.
Considered the highest art in Islamic culture, calligraphy offers the modern viewer a deeper understanding of Muslims and their culture. Holland will discuss calligraphy, known as khatt in Arabic, from its earliest inspiration and present many of the great masterpieces from various historical periods, including the Ottoman era. She also will discuss the art form’s methods and tools and share stories of some of the great calligraphers.
“It is vital for the American public to understand Muslim history and civilization in its broadest contexts,” says Asma Sayeed, assistant professor of religious studies. “Unfortunately, Islam is all too often cast in a negative light, particularly after Sept. 11 and our military engagements in Afghanistan and Iraq. This lecture is intended to expose the Lafayette community to the art of Arabic – specifically Quranic – calligraphy, which is one of the most celebrated cultural achievements of Muslim societies.”
Holland has studied with master calligrapher Mohamed Zakariya, and has presented programs on Islamic calligraphy since 1997 at schools, universities, and museums throughout North America. She is an active member of the New York Society of Scribes, and her work in Latin includes commercial lettering and teaching. Holland earned a B.A. in religious studies from Temple University and has studied classical Arabic in Cairo, Egypt, and at the University of Pennsylvania.
The lecture and slideshow are sponsored by the religious studies department, Friends of Skillman Library, and Muslim Students Association.