Yale's Arabic Program Hosts Iraqi Calligrapher Wissam Shawkat
Yale's Arabic program recently hosted an engaging event, bringing together students of all levels and fostering global engagement through cultural immersion. The highlight was a talk by Iraqi-born calligrapher and designer Wissam Shawkat, who shared his unique perspective on Arabic calligraphy and its history.
Shawkat's artistic journey began with encouragement from a teacher, leading him to develop his contemporary style, Calligraforms. His work has gained international recognition, featuring in exhibitions and brand logos of renowned companies like Apple and Rolex. Students found the historical aspect of calligraphy and the diversity of styles particularly interesting.
The Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations Department will continue to promote cultural understanding with a roundtable and two lectures on Arabic world maps and early Islamic texts on October 13. While not directly related, an exhibition titled 'La Divina – die Wienerin' by artist Nina Maron, exploring the emancipated Viennese woman and her cultural-historical context, is also set to take place around that date.
Shawkat's visit to Yale was appreciated by the Arabic program's director, Sarab Al Ani, who praised his unique expression and connection to the culture behind the language. The department's ongoing efforts to host such events and lectures aim to enrich students' understanding of the Arabic world and its diverse cultural aspects.
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