Islamic Calligraphy Techniques (CALL 701):

• Focuses on mastering the calligraphic styles traditionally used in Islamic manuscripts, including Naskh, Thuluth, Diwani, and Kufic scripts.
• Emphasizes precision, consistency, and aesthetic qualities in writing, along with the cultural and religious significance of different styles.
• Students will develop skills in creating traditional calligraphic compositions and using various tools, such as reed pens and specialized inks.

Illumination Techniques (CALL 702):

• Teaches the decorative techniques used in the illumination of Islamic manuscripts, such as gold leafing, miniature painting, and the use of floral and geometric motifs.
• Covers the use of natural pigments, brush techniques, and the application of decorative borders and frames.
• Students will practice creating illuminated pages, learning to integrate these decorations with calligraphic text.

Historical Manuscripts (CALL 703):

• Offers a comprehensive study of historical Islamic manuscripts, focusing on their artistic, cultural, and spiritual significance.
• Covers the evolution of calligraphy and illumination styles from different Islamic periods, including Abbasid, Ottoman, Mamluk, and Safavid eras.
• Analyzes famous manuscripts, such as the Blue Quran, the Topkapi Scroll, and other significant works, to understand their historical contexts and artistic techniques.

Practical Illumination Projects (CALL 704):

• Provides hands-on experience in creating illuminated calligraphic works, applying the techniques learned in CALL 702.
• Encourages creativity and experimentation within the framework of traditional styles and methods.
• Students will produce several pieces of illuminated calligraphy, working towards creating a cohesive body of work suitable for exhibition.

Advanced Manuscript Restoration (CALL 705):

• Focuses on the techniques for restoring and preserving historical manuscripts, including methods for repairing damage, cleaning, and protecting delicate materials.
• Covers both traditional restoration techniques and modern conservation practices.
• Students will learn to assess the condition of manuscripts, determine appropriate restoration methods, and understand ethical considerations in conservation.

Capstone Project (CALL 706):

• Involves a comprehensive project that demonstrates the student's ability to combine calligraphy and illumination techniques to create a complete manuscript or illuminated piece.
• The project should reflect a high level of artistic and technical skill, as well as a deep understanding of historical styles and cultural contexts.
• Students will present their project to a panel of experts for evaluation and feedback.

Examination and Portfolio Review (CALL 707):

• The final assessment includes a detailed review of the student's portfolio, which should feature all completed works from the program, including illuminated manuscripts, calligraphic pieces, and restoration projects.
• A panel of experts in Islamic art and calligraphy will evaluate the portfolio based on artistic quality, technical proficiency, historical accuracy, and creativity.

Graduates of the Diploma in Islamic Calligraphy and Illumination can pursue several career paths, including:

• Professional Calligrapher: Creating commissioned calligraphic artworks for clients, galleries, and exhibitions.
• Illuminator: Specializing in the decorative art of manuscript illumination, working for art studios, museums, or independent projects.
• Manuscript Restorer: Working with museums, libraries, or private collections to restore and conserve historical manuscripts.
• Art Instructor: Teaching Islamic calligraphy and illumination at art schools, universities, or community centers.
• Curator or Researcher: Working in museums or cultural institutions, focusing on Islamic art, calligraphy, and manuscript studies.

• Educational Background: Basic knowledge and experience in Arabic calligraphy and/or art.
• Skills: Demonstrated proficiency in calligraphy and a foundational understanding of manuscript illumination techniques.
• Application Requirements: Submission of a portfolio of calligraphic or illuminated works, a completed application form, and a statement of purpose outlining the applicant's interest in Islamic calligraphy and illumination.