Welcome Back, UAC Calligraphers!
In our first episode, we explored the captivating history and enduring relevance of Ruqaa script. Now, it's time to get our hands dirty and delve into the essential tools and techniques you need to write beautiful Ruqaa.
Equipping Yourself for Everyday Elegance:
Before we begin, ensure you have the necessary tools:
- Qalam (Pen): A medium-sized reed pen with a carefully prepared tip is ideal for Ruqaa. UAC resources can guide you on selecting and preparing your qalam.
- Ink: Opt for high-quality black ink suitable for Arabic calligraphy.
- Paper: Choose smooth, absorbent paper that can handle Ruqaa's strokes without bleeding. Consider practicing on special Ruqaa paper for optimal results.
Posture and Grip for Precision:
Maintaining proper posture and grip is crucial for control and consistent letterforms. Here's a guide:
- Posture: Sit upright with your back straight and feet firmly planted on the ground.
- Grip: Hold the qalam comfortably between your thumb, index, and middle finger, with the qalam resting on the side of your ring finger for stability.
The Building Blocks of Ruqaa:
Ruqaa, like any script, is built upon a core set of strokes. This episode will focus on mastering these fundamentals:
- Al-Qaim (The Upright): A straight vertical stroke forming the backbone of many Ruqaa letters.
- Al-Afs (The Horizontal): A straight horizontal stroke used for letter connections and diacritics.
- Al-Mansub (The Connected): A diagonal stroke that connects letters within a word, creating a smooth flow.
Practice Makes Perfect Ruqaa:
Now comes the exciting part – practicing these strokes! Here are some tips:
- Start Slow and Steady: Focus on slow, deliberate movements with the qalam. Remember, precision and control are key.
- Visualize the Stroke: Before making a stroke, imagine its path in your mind. This helps guide your hand for a smooth execution.
- Utilize Practice Sheets: UAC resources might offer downloadable Ruqaa practice sheets with isolated strokes. Utilize these sheets to refine your technique.
Moving on to Letters:
Once you've mastered the basic strokes, we'll progress to forming individual Ruqaa letters. The upcoming episode will break down the letter shapes, ensuring you understand the proper proportions and stroke connections.
Stay tuned for Episode 3: Composing with Ruqaa: From Everyday Notes to Artistic Expression!
Elegance of Ruqaa: Episode 2 Mastering the Fundamentals of Ruqaa