A freelance calligrapher, Mr. Wafaa has taught Arabic calligraphy classes in Boston since 2004, including at the Center for Arabic Culture in Somerville.

Originally from Iraq, Mr. Wafaa became a refugee during the first Gulf War in 1991. He lived in a refugee camp in Saudi Arabia for 6 years.  There he spent 12 hours a day practicing calligraphy on scraps of paper – with ink he made from crushed berries and pens he made from sticks of wood.  His calligraphy practice helped him survive. Writing ancient surahs (verses) from the Quran brought him a sense of well-being and spiritual strength. It gave him hope.

Following the presentation, students will have an opportunity to ask Mr. Wafaa to write their names in Arabic calligraphy.

Also: Grab a goody bag on your way out (while they last)!

Sponsored by MIT Global Languages and MIT-Arab World / MISTI.

Open to MIT community. Attendees will be required to check in with their MIT ID or MIT Atlas Mobile App.

This event is in celebration of Arabic Language Day (December  18). Also, students will be glad to learn that Arabic will be offered at MIT for the first time  over IAP. Learn more.