Persian Calligraphy Workshop Proposal
Title
Presence in the Moment
Facilitator
SaBa, Master’s Degree in Architecture (Roma Tre University in Rome), Mastery Certificate in Calligraphy (Grade: Momtaz, 1999, Iranian Calligraphers Association), Lead Artist
In collaboration with a team bound by a shared passion for art, culture, and education, each bringing unique practical and artistic expertise to offer a rich, collaborative workshop experience.
Target Audience
- Artists, designers, calligraphy enthusiasts
- Persian and non-Persian speakers
- Adults of all skill levels (no prior experience required)
Duration
Approx. 3.5–4 hours, including a short break
Materials Provided
- Printed handout guidelines for reference
- Practice paper
- Calligraphy ink (industrial or handmade Persian ink)
- Pre-cut qalam (reed pens), shaped and ready for use
Overview
An immersive and meditative workshop inviting participants to explore the poetic and visual language of Persian calligraphy. Through guided exercises, live demonstrations, and hands-on practice, participants will experience the timeless beauty of Persian poetry, the mathematical elegance of the Nastaʿlīq script, and the harmony of form, rhythm, and presence that calligraphy uniquely offers.
The name “Presence in the Moment” is rooted in the precise mathematical rules and geometric laws that form the foundation of Persian calligraphy. Especially in the Nastaʿlīq style, each letter and curve is governed by proportion, symmetry, and carefully measured rhythm. This structural discipline demands more than artistic flair, it calls for complete attention and deep presence. To create such harmony and elegance, one must be fully engaged in each stroke. That is why Nastaʿlīq carries both solid structure and graceful fluidity: it lives entirely in the present. Every stroke becomes a quiet act of focus, and every composition a meditative return to the now.
The workshop is open to both Persian and non-Persian speakers. No prior experience is necessary. I will guide participants step-by-step through the formation of selected Persian letters in the Nastaʿlīq style. Our focus will be on rhythm, flow, and the meditative experience of creating with presence and intention.
We will begin with a brief introduction to the history and philosophy of Persian calligraphy, setting the stage for a live demonstration of traditional tools and techniques. This includes the use of reed pens (qalam), handmade paper, natural inks, and the intricate process of shaping pen tip (tarash-e-qalam).
Ultimately, the workshop becomes a shared meditation where visual art, Persian poetry, and mindful presence intertwine in silent beauty and balance inviting each participant into a deeper connection with self, words, and structures.
Workshop Components
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Introduction & Context
A Brief History and the Philosophy Behind the Art: Explore the history and evolution of Persian calligraphy, understand how Persian calligraphy is more than writing, it is a meditative practice, a form of spiritual and artistic discipline rooted in beauty, balance, and presence.Introduction to Nastaʿlīq Script and Its Aesthetic Principles: Learn about the principles and rules, the structure, flow, and elegance of Nastaʿlīq; discover the visual language of Nastaʿlīq: harmony, symmetry, spacing, and how each letter and line contributes to the overall emotional impact of a composition.- The Role of Presence and Mindfulness: Experience calligraphy as a contemplative practice, where every stroke is a reflection of inner stillness, focus, and intention, a bridge between mind, hand, and ink.
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Demonstration of Tools & Techniques
Presentation of traditional Persian calligraphy tools:
- Qalam (reed pens)
- Handmade papers
- Natural inks
- Qalam-Tarash
- Qat-Zan
- Mohre
Live demonstration of reed pen shaping (qalam-tarashi); observational only
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Guided Calligraphy Practice
- Step-by-step instruction on forming selected Persian letters with elegance and precision
- Exploration of structure, balance, and movement, revealing the inner harmony of each form
- Focus on rhythm, breath, and flow, inviting participants into the meditative nature of writing
- Accessible to all, this session is designed for both Persian and non-Persian speakers, offering a simplified yet meaningful introduction to the art of calligraphy
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Group Reflection & Sharing (Optional)
An open, supportive space for participants to reflect, share, and connect. This portion is designed to gently close the session with insight, creativity, and mindfulness.
- Share your artwork and personal experience of the process.
- Reflect on the meditative aspects of the calligraphy practice.
- Offer or receive feedback in a spirit of growth and encouragement.
- Discuss how the practice may inspire or support your daily life and creative flow.
- Share a favorite word, poem line, or gesture that resonated with you.
- Explore insights that emerged through the repetition, rhythm, or poetry.
- Set a creative intention for integrating calligraphy or reflection into your routine.
- Discuss the relationship between discipline, beauty, and presence in artistic practice.
Workshop Outcome
By the end of the workshop, participants will leave with:
- A foundational understanding of the structure, flow, and philosophy behind Persian Nastaʿlīq calligraphy.
- One or more completed calligraphy artworks, guided by classical principles and personal expression.
- A heightened sense of presence and focus through the meditative nature of calligraphy practice.
- A deeper awareness of how art can cultivate mindfulness, clarity, and emotional balance.