Among these artists is Namareq Mohamed Ali, a specialist in the arts of the book and Islamic illumination (tezhip), who dedicated years of her life to studying this timeless art between Sudan and Türkiye, becoming one of the prominent Arab names in the field.

In this interview, we spoke with Namareq about her artistic journey, her relationship with Islamic manuscripts, and why she believes patience is the most essential quality an artist can possess.

How did your journey with art begin?

I believe my relationship with art began long before I understood what “art” truly meant.

Since childhood, I was always drawn to small details… the ornamentation on old doors, Islamic motifs, and the lines found in traditional architecture. I would stop and look at them for long moments, feeling that they carried a unique spirit.

Later, while studying Fine Arts and specializing in Arabic calligraphy, I became closer to the world of manuscripts and Islamic ornamentation. That was when I truly felt I had found the field that reflected who I was.

Why did you choose illumination and the arts of the book specifically?

Because this art form brings together the things I love most…
precision, contemplation, and patience.

Illumination is not simply decorative ornament surrounding texts or manuscripts. It is an entire world built on harmony and balance. Every element has its place, and every color and line carries meaning within the composition.

I feel that this art teaches the artist how to slow down… how to focus… and how to notice details that many people pass by without seeing.

How did your experience in Türkiye shape your artistic vision?

It was a life-changing experience.

In Istanbul, I studied traditional arts in a deep academic environment and learned directly from specialized masters within a tradition that stretches back hundreds of years.

There, I understood that these arts are not merely technical skills, but a culture, a philosophy, and a way of thinking.

I spent long hours studying a single manuscript or analyzing a small ornament, and over time I began to understand the deep relationship between art and patience, and between beauty and order.

What attracts you most to Islamic art?

The idea of balance.

Islamic art carries a unique sense of harmony and calmness. Even with its richness in detail, there is always a feeling of order and serenity.

I believe this is what makes it so connected to the soul…
It is not based on chaos or excess, but on balanced repetition, patience, and precision.

How would you describe your relationship with historical manuscripts?

I always feel that manuscripts carry memory.

When I study a historical manuscript or ornament, I do not feel that I am looking at an “old object,” but rather at a human trace that has reached us across time.

Every line and ornament tells you something about the artist who created it… about their patience and the way they saw the world.

What do you try to pass on to your students at SOCO?

I try to help them understand that art is not a race.

Today, everything moves quickly, and people often want immediate results. But traditional arts are different… they require time, patience, and continuity.

At SOCO, I do not focus only on teaching technique, but also on teaching observation, concentration, and understanding the artwork from within.

I want students to develop a real relationship with art, rather than simply copying something beautiful.

What is the most difficult part of learning this type of art?

Patience… without a doubt.

At the beginning, artists may feel that progress is slow, but over time they begin to understand that the journey itself is part of the art.

Traditional arts teach you how to accept slowness and appreciate small details.

What does art mean to you today?

I feel that art has become a way for me to understand the world.

It is a space for reflection, calmness, and connection with heritage and beauty.

And every time I create a new artwork or ornament, I feel that I am still learning something new… and that is the most beautiful part of the journey.

A final message to art students?

Do not rush.

Real art takes time…
but every moment you spend learning will stay with you.

Observe details, be patient with yourself, and enjoy the journey before reaching the final result ✨

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من جرافيتي الشوارع إلى قلم القصب الدقيق

قبل أوراق الذهب الرقيقة وأقلام القصب المقطوعة بعناية (الأقلام)، كانت هناك الخطوط الجريئة والواسعة لطلاء الرش. بدأ هوس إليف بأشكال الحروف في تركيا قبل وقت طويل من أي تدريب رسمي. كانت من نوع الأطفال الذين قد يغرقون طوال فترة ما بعد الظهيرة في مطاردة التناغم المثالي بين الحبر والورق. في المرحلة الإعدادية، وجد هذا الانبهار متنفساً له في عالم الجرافيتي المتمرد، وهو لقاء عصري خام مع هندسة الحروف.

لكن كل شيء تغير في المرحلة الثانوية عندما دخلت فصلاً لتعليم الخط العربي الكلاسيكي.

تسترجع إليف تلك اللحظة بشعور من الدهشة قائلة: "في اللحظة التي أمسكت فيها بقلم القصب، حدث شيء ما بداخلي. كان بإمكاني التدرب لساعات دون أن أشعر بالتعب. لم يكن الأمر يبدو وكأنه التزام صارم بل شعرت وكأنني في بيتي".

سرعان ما أدركت إليف أنه في الفنون التقليدية نادراً ما تترك الكلمة المكتوبة بجمال دون زينة. فالخط والتذهيب (فن الإضاءة الكلاسيكي) توأمان لا يفترقان. انطلقت إليف بكل طاقتها لدراسة كليهما، وهو إتقان مزدوج لا يزال يؤثر بقوة على نظرتها الحادة للتصميم اليوم.

الكتابة مع أرواح الأساتذة

تتخصص إليف في المنحنيات الأنيقة لخطوط الثلث والنسخ والثلث الجلي، وهي تنجذب إلى الخلود المطلق لهذه الخطوط. إن مشاهدتها وهي تكتب تشبه مشاهدة الزمن وهو يطوي نفسه. بالنسبة لها، الجلوس أمام المسند ليس عملاً فردياً أبداً. إنه انخراط نشط وحي مع نظام بيئي فكري صمد وتطور عبر قرون.

توضح إليف قائلة: "يخبرك هذا التطور بشيء عميق. أنت لا تكتب بمفردك أبداً. أنت تكتب جنباً إلى جنب مع كل خطاط أمسك بالقلم نفسه من قبلك".

لحظة التنوير في قصر طوب قابي

لكل فنان لحظة تغير مساره بشكل جذري. بالنسبة لإليف، حدثت تلك اللحظة في القاعات التاريخية الهادئة بقصر طوب قابي في إسطنبول.

أثناء وقوفها على بعد بوصات من مخطوطات بارعة تعود لقرون مضت، ذُهلت بالحميمية الاستثنائية للصفحات. التجليد المثالي والدقة الهندسية في ترتيب الخطوط والرقص السلس بين الحبر والتذهيب، كلها أمور لامست روحها. وبينما يميل العديد من الخطاطين اليوم نحو اللوحات الجدارية الضخمة، شعرت إليف بانجذاب قوي لا يقاوم نحو العالم الدقيق والمفصل لفنون الكتاب التقليدية.

ولترسيخ نفسها في هذا الانضباط، سعىت للحصول على إرشاد الأستاذ أحمد فارس رزق. وتحت توجيهه، انفتحت لها الأعماق الواسعة والمهيبة لهذه الحرفة، مما منح ممارستها وضوحاً جديداً ومعياراً من التميز لا يقبل المساومة.

حيث تلتقي الخوارزميات بالحبر القديم

ربما تكون الطبقة الأكثر إثارة في قصة إليف هي ما تحمله معها إلى مرسمها: العقل المدرب للغاية والمختص بحل المشكلات لمهندسة حاسوب. كيف يتكيف دماغ مبرمج بالخوارزميات مع شكل فني أقدم من المطبعة؟ الإجابة هي: ببراعة تامة.

في أنماط مثل الثلث الجلي، لا يعد تكوين لوحة واحدة مجرد رسم بل هو حل لغز مكاني ذكي ومعقد. تمنحها قاعدتها التقنية ميزة لا تصدق في موازنة هذه الأوزان البصرية المعقدة.

علاوة على ذلك، فإن تدريبها كمذهبة يمنحها يد جراح عندما يتعلق الأمر بـ "التصحيح"، وهو العملية المضنية لتعديل الانحرافات المجهرية الطبيعية للقلم للوصول إلى أشكال حروف حادة وخالية من العيوب. ولأنها تتحدث اللغة البصرية للأنماط التقليدية بطلاقة، فإن قطعها النهائية هي روائع فنية متماسكة في التصميم.

Passing the Key at SOCO

اليوم، أثمر تفاني إليف عن نيلها اعترافاً رسمياً من وزارة الثقافة التركية كحاملة للتراث الثقافي غير المادي. إنه تكريم يجعلها تشعر بتواضع شديد، ومع ذلك يحفزها بشدة للحفاظ على استمرارية هذا الإرث.

في ورش العمل التي تقدمها في "سوكو"، لا تكتفي إليف بتعليم آليات الكتابة بل تسلم طلابها مفتاحاً. إنها تتحدىهم لرؤية الكتابة التقليدية ليس كمجرد هواية، بل كرمز حي للحضارة الإنسانية. فتطور خطوطنا يعكس تطورنا نحن. ومن خلال حمل القلم، لا يقوم طلابها بصنع الفن فحسب، بل يشاركون بنشاط في القصة الجميلة والمستمرة للتواصل الثقافي.

The post Artist Spotlight:Elif Hale Gokcen appeared first on School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation.

Artist of the Week: Mostafa Sedky Mostafa has a degree in Engineering, but he did not stop at the rigidity of numbers. Instead, he found in them a living language, choosing to dive into the world of Islamic geometric ornamentation as a field that connects art, knowledge, and design.What initially drew him was the structural logic and mathematical harmony behind these geometric patterns.

Mostafa does not view historic monuments as mere silent walls; he sees them as his primary source of inspiration..For him, every monument is like a “a living book written seven or eight centuries ago“.He believes that careful observation of these ruins reveals layers of thought, craftsmanship, and intention behind every line and proportion..For him, these architectural spaces prompt questions, and questions, in turn, spark ideas that can inspire research and creative exploration for years to come..

As a culmination of years of research and practice, Mostafa authored his specialised book: “Islamic Geometric Ornament: Principles and Foundations“.The aim was not just an artistic record, but a rigorous yet accessible introduction for non-specialists to this complex field.The book is an invitation to explore the rules that give this art its universal language, extending his vision of making heritage accessible and understandable to everyone..

Mostafa understands that Islamic art evolved naturally for centuries, but a cultural disruption created a gap between contemporary practices and our artistic heritage.. Therefore, in his work and designs, he does not aim to simply replicate historical motifs. Instead, he seeks to reinterpret their underlying principles to feel both authentic and relevant today, building a strong bridge between the authenticity of the past and the needs of the present..

Mostafa's workshops at SOCO, you don’t just learn how to draw a geometric pattern; you discover the deeper values and cultural philosophy behind this art.He invites you to connect with a sophisticated intellectual tradition and a remarkable artistic civilisation.His ultimate aim is to foster a sense of appreciation, pride, and a rooted connection to this heritage..

For those wishing to enter and delve deeper into this world, Mostafa’s most important advice begins with “Clarifying your intention“.Islamic geometric art is a vast field, and its true depth reveals itself only to those with patience and discipline..If you truly want to understand this heritage, don't look for quick results; enjoy the journey, remain curious, and allow yourself the time needed to truly grasp the “language of these patterns“.

Join Mostafa Sedky's Course at SOCO (Available Online):

Special Discount for Sadati Card Holders

We are pleased to announce this initiative as part of our community support to encourage everyone to discover art:

20% Discount for Sadati Card holders (Fujairah Government and CPO employees).

To get the discount:

• Send a photo of your card via WhatsApp or Email.
• Or present it upon arrival.

That was our newsletter for this week ✨

See you next week with a new artist from SOCO.

Thank you for following us 💛

The post Teacher Spotlight: Mostafa Sedky appeared first on School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation.

Today, we're excited to start a new series…

Each week, we will bring you closer to the artists and tutors of the School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation (SOCO), sharing their stories, artistic styles, and creative journeys.

This week's artist:
Shevaun Doherty

At the School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation, we believe that art begins with observation.

And with Shevaun, this idea becomes a way of life.

Shevaun is a botanical artist who specialises in watercolour painting. She has travelled from the West to the East to share her expertise, and she works with us as a tutor and instructor, passing on her knowledge and passion to our students every day at SOCO.

In our conversation with her, she said something simple yet profound:
“Art is seeing the details that most people overlook.”

She doesn't merely paint nature
she reintroduces it to us in a way that allows us to see it again, differently.

Her journey began while living in Egypt, where nature became a daily source of inspiration. By collecting simple elements such as flowers and leaves, she developed a practice that later evolved into a refined artistic style combining scientific observation with artistic sensitivity.

At SOCO, this is precisely what Shevaun teaches our students…
not just how to paint, but how to observe, be patient, and truly understand what they are creating.

For her, painting is a quiet process that requires time and focus—values that we aim to cultivate in our students.

Her work is distinguished by its ability to capture light, colour, and fine details using watercolour, making each piece feel like a true study of nature.

If you would like to begin your journey in this art form, you can join her courses at SOCO — available online from anywhere in the world.

To join: https://socofujairah.ae/product/painting-realistic-fruit-in-watercolour/

In this workshop, you will learn:
• The fundamentals of drawing
• Drip painting techniques (wet-on-wet, layering, dry brush)
• Understanding light, shadow and fine details
• How to build a complete artwork step by step

We look forward to seeing you next week with another artist.

Thank you for following us ✨

The post Artist Spotlight appeared first on School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation.

Just as Ramadan offered a space for stillness and reflection, Eid arrives as a celebration of life and beauty. In Islamic culture, art has always been closely connected to this joy from Arabic calligraphy that adorns heartfelt greetings to Islamic ornamentation that brings elegance and delight to every detail.

At the School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation, we see Eid as a continuation of this journey, where art meets celebration, and creativity becomes a way to express gratitude and beauty.

Eid is also a time for connection, for sharing meaningful moments with those around us, and for expressing our emotions in different ways, including through art, which remains a universal language that brings hearts together across cultures.

On this blessed occasion, we extend our warmest wishes to you and your loved ones, and we pray that it returns to you with goodness, happiness, and peace.

Eid Mubarak,
May your good deeds be accepted, and wishing you a joyful year ahead 🌙✨

The post Eid Al-Fitr… A Joy Completed with Beauty appeared first on School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation.

Islamic arts have long been associated with this state of contemplation and serenity. The harmonious geometry of patterns, the delicate botanical motifs, and the flowing elegance of Arabic calligraphy are not merely aesthetic elements; they form a visual language that expresses the balance and harmony at the heart of this timeless art. Through these repeated and balanced patterns emerges a profound sense of order and beauty that has inspired artists for centuries.

During the nights of Ramadan, art takes on a special meaning. Practicing Arabic calligraphy, drawing Islamic patterns, or even reflecting on the beauty of ancient manuscripts can become moments of quiet focus and calm, where creativity turns into a space for reflection and inner peace.

One of the most beautiful values embodied in Islamic art is patience. Every artwork begins with a simple line or an initial idea, gradually developing step by step until harmony and beauty are achieved. An artist may spend hours—sometimes even days—perfecting a single line or repeating a decorative pattern until it reaches the desired balance. In this way, art meets the spirit of Ramadan. Just as one learns patience through fasting, an artist learns patience through the creative journey, where the artistic process becomes a peaceful experience of focus, contemplation, and serenity.

At the School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation, we believe that traditional arts are not merely technical skills, but a cultural and spiritual experience at the same time. Through learning Arabic calligraphy and the arts of ornamentation and Islamic geometry, students discover not only the beauty of these arts but also the deeper philosophy behind them—where art becomes a space for reflection and a bridge to cultural heritage.

As this blessed month approaches its end, the last ten days remain a precious opportunity to pause for a moment, reflect on the beauty that surrounds us, and renew our connection with art, culture, and inner peace.

Ramadan Mubarak,

May these blessed days be filled with beauty. 🌙

The post When Silence Becomes a Space for Art appeared first on School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation.

From London to Fujairah

SOCO × SOAS: Postgraduate Diploma and MA Programme Accredited by the University of London

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi,
The School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation continues to consolidate its position as a global centre dedicated to the aesthetics of calligraphy, manuscripts, and the arts of the book—championing the values of beauty, authenticity, and visual heritage.

In this context, the School is pleased to announce the launch of two specialised academic programmes in Manuscript Arts: the Postgraduate Diploma and the Master of Arts in Manuscript Studies, delivered in Fujairah with academic accreditation from SOAS University of London.

Both programmes are offered in person in Fujairah at the School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation, located at Al Taif Business Centre, 17th Floor, and are academically validated by the University of London. This international accreditation reflects the academic rigour and high standard of both the theoretical and practical components of the programmes.

This collaboration offers students the opportunity to pursue a world-class academic education, aligned with international standards, within a culturally rich and inspiring environment that honours tradition while engaging with contemporary practice.

It further strengthens Fujairah's position as a centre for cultural and intellectual exchange, attracting those interested in manuscript arts from within the UAE and beyond. Students are able to access globally recognised education locally, through an integrated learning experience that brings together academic research and the traditional practices of the book arts.

Programme Structure and Key Features

• A comprehensive structure comprising 30% theoretical study and 70% practical application, ensuring both conceptual understanding and technical mastery.
• Theoretical modules delivered by experienced academic staff from SOAS University of London.
International study trips Egypt or Turkey in the first year, and Spain or Italy in the second year.
• An integrated curriculum spanning calligraphy, illumination, gilding, and bookbinding, enabling students to produce a complete manuscript by hand.
• Suitable for applicants from Graphic design, Arabic language studies, library and information studies, conservation and restoration, art history, as well as all those with a keen interest in this field.
• Admission requirements include: a recognised university degree, portfolio submission, personal interview and English language proficiency.
• Affordable tuition fees, flexible payment plans, discounts for returning students, and dedicated support for Fujairah nationals.

About SOAS University of London

SOAS University of London is one of the world’s leading institutions specialising in the study of Asia, Africa and the Middle East, and is located in the heart of London.
Renowned for its academic excellence in arts, cultural studies, and manuscript research, SOAS places a strong emphasis on the relationship between scholarly research and living cultural traditions.

If you feel that this programme aligns with your academic interests and professional aspirations,
register your interest and our team will be in touch.

🔗 https://socofujairah.ae/academic/

The post Postgraduate Diploma & MA in Manuscript Arts appeared first on School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation.

The School of Calligraphy & Ornamentation is proud to announce its specialised programmes for the academic year 2025–2026, blending tradition with innovation. Our courses award accredited CPD certificates, and top participants will enjoy A cultural trip to Uzbekistan as part of their learning journey.

We are also launching a New Annual Events Calendar for 2025, ensuring our community stays updated on every workshop, course, and cultural activity.

Annual Full-Year Programmes (September – June)

Turkish Illumination and Gilding – a complete journey into Ottoman artistry.
Thuluth Mastery – a professional pathway in Thuluth calligraphy.
Naskh Calligraphy – an in-depth study of one of the most elegant scripts.
Islamic Geometric Ornamentation – exploring the principles and precision of Islamic geometry.
All full-year programmes include CPD certification and prepare participants for professional and artistic development in the field of Islamic arts.

Semester One Programmes (September – February) – Level One

These introductory courses are designed as a foundation. Successful completion will qualify students to progress to advanced levels in Semester 2.

• Halkar Illumination for Beginners
• Advanced Skills in Islamic Floral Ornamentation
• Digital Geometric Design (Rare Specialisation)A unique course guiding students from hand-drawing Islamic patterns to creating digital models ready for furniture, décor, or product design using AutoCAD and laser cutting.
• Foundations of Diwani Calligraphy

Short Courses & One-Day Workshops

If you're simply curious to try out our courses without committing to a full programme, our doors are always open for you. We have designed a range of Short, one-day workshops that give you the chance to experience the beauty of traditional arts in a fun, hands-on way.

Highlights include:

• Indian miniature paintingExplore the delicate details of plants, trees, animals, portraits, angels, and architectural elements through miniature painting.
• Botanical Watercolour PaintingDiscover the elegance of art inspired by nature, using traditional watercolour techniques.

All short courses are offered in person in Fujairah, with some options available online for broader access.

These workshops are perfect for those who want to Explore, experiment, and enjoy a taste of traditional arts, even if it’s just for a day.

Calligraphy Competition – FICCO 2025

The deadline is fast approaching for submissions to the International Calligraphy Competition

The competition welcomes participants from around the world, with a dedicated category for Emirati calligraphers. Winning works will be showcased in the official exhibition.

Submit your entry here: https://socofujairah.ae/ficoc/

The post From Fujairah to Uzbekistan – School of Calligraphy & Ornamentation Programmes 2025/2026 appeared first on School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation.

But what exactly is a manuscript?
It is not just an old book, but a complete work of art combining the beauty of Arabic calligraphy, the precision of geometric and floral ornamentation, the colours of nature, and the touches of gilding and bookbinding that preserve the heritage and culture of a nation.

In this programme, you will learn:
Arabic Calligraphy Pen
Geometric and Floral Ornamentation
🌿 Nature Drawing and Colouring
Gilding, Bookmaking, and Bookbinding

Believing that art is best understood when experienced in its original context, participants will enjoy two fully funded artistic study trips:
✈️ Egypt – during the first semester, to explore Islamic art in its museums and historic mosques.
✈️ Uzbekistan – after the first semester, to discover the wonders of architecture and ornamentation in the heart of Central Asia.

💡 Limited seats available – 12 full scholarships Applicants accepted onto the programme will have their course fees covered and can apply for funding towards international study trips.

• 8 scholarships for UAE nationals
• 2 scholarships for GCC nationals
• 2 scholarships for UAE residents

The scholarship includes all necessary tools and art materials for classroom work.

2023-04-04 15 September 2025 – Duration 1 year
Fujairah, United Arab Emirates

🔗 Register now and embark on an artistic and cultural journey that revives the soul of letters and ornamentation:
Click here to apply

The post The Intensive Manuscript Arts Program  appeared first on School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation.

We’re always delighted to have you as part of our creative community. In this newsletter, we’re excited to share highlights of our latest events, creative workshops for both adults and children, as well as special invitations for the UAE calligraphy community.

 Summer Is Brighter with SOCO's Camp

We are excited to announce the Continuation of our Summer Camp for Children and Youth (ages 6–16) throughout the month of August, Following the great success of the July programme!

📍 Location: Al Taif Business Centre – 17th Floor – Fujairah

The camp offers a rich variety of creative workshops, hands-on activities, and fun-filled experiences designed to inspire, engage, and develop young talents.

Invitation to the Second Gathering of UAE Calligraphers

📍 Venue School of Calligraphy & Ornamentation – Fujairah
📅 Date: Sunday, 27 July 2025
🕔 Time 5:00 PM

Discussion topics:

• Reasons and Secrets Behind Variations in Quranic Orthography
• Meaning Through Form: Semantic Shifts in Quranic Structure with Examples

💻 The online attendance link has been shared via the official WhatsApp group.

📞 To join or inquire:
+971 50 476 6337
📧 Email: info@socofujairah.ae

🔗 Coverage of the first gathering:
https://socofujairah.ae/category/news-articles/

Adult Workshops – Every Sunday

We provide a wide variety of workshops for adults (aged 16 and over), run by professional artists and hosted at the school.

🎨 Glass painting – Sunday, 27 July & 3 August | 🕒 11:00 AM–1:00 PM | 💰 AED 80
💧 Ebru (Water Marbling) Sunday, August 3rd | 🕒 3:00–5:00 PM | 💰 AED 40
🧵 Woodblock Printing and Islamic Ornamentation – Sunday, August 10 | 🕒 11:00 AM–2:00 PM | 💰 AED 60

📌 Register now https://socofujairah.ae/courses/– Limited Seats Available]

🌹 That's all for today's newsletter – thank you for being with us!

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