Introduction to Arabic Type Design (in Arabic)

with Dr. Nadine Chahine: Summer 2023

This introductory course is 24 hours of teaching spread over 4 months. The course is for anyone interested in Arabic type design! Those with previous knowledge will be able to progress more quickly, but the course is structured in such a way that no advance knowledge of either Arabic or type design is required. However, the participants need to have a strong background in design principles and DTP applications. The course is taught in Arabic.

Course structure
(classes take place at 4pm UK time)

• Session 1 — May 2: Introduction to the Arabic script and calligraphic styles
• Session 2 — May 9: Introduction to Arabic typographic styles: Kufi + Glyphs
• Session 3 — May 23: Review of Project 1 (structural analysis of one Kufi style)
• Session 4 — May 30: Introduction to Arabic typographic styles: Naskh
• Session 5 — June 6: Review of Project 2 (structural analysis of one Naskh style)
• Session 6 — June 13: Type Design basics
• Session 7 — June 20: Review of Project 3 (first draft)
• Session 8 — June 27: Review of Project 3 (basic character set)
• Session 9 — July 4: Review of Project 3 (expanded set)
• Session 10 — July 11: Review of Project 3 (full set)
• Session 11 — July 18: Refinement
• Session 12 — July 25: Refinement

Course materials and projects

Participants will be required to prepare for each session which typically comprises the provided course readings and recommended videos. There will be 3 main projects, though the first two are more analytical in nature. Project 3 will be an opportunity for each participant to design their own new typeface!

Capacity

The course is open to a maximum of 12 participants. This ensures that every student gets ample time for feedback.

How will it work?

The course will use the latest software in order to set up a virtual classroom and a resource centre for the course materials. Participants will need to join the weekly sessions via a Zoom link that would be provided. A stable internet connection is required, as well as the latest Glyphs software on a Mac.

Fees and registration

The course fee is £990 + 20%. Thanks to the support of Majarra, each participant will receive a 20% discount on the registration fee; and ArabicType an additional 20% discount. The final fee is £594 + 20% VAT, and is non-refundable. To register, or if you have any questions, please email [email protected]