Exhibition: Wednesday, 29th May – Sunday, 9th June (Tuesday: Appointments only)
Q & A and demonstration: Thursday, 30th May, 4-6 pm & Thursday, 6th June, 4-6 pm
'In The Study: The Art of The Pen' is an intimate and curated showcase of the work by artist Soraya Syed. Syed is a classically trained calligrapher dedicated to bringing the ancient art of Arabic calligraphy into the 21st century through film, dance, VR, and three-dimensional sculptures. Her pioneering work has been exhibited across Europe and the Middle East and is prized by collectors worldwide. In 2005, she became the first Briton to be awarded the coveted ijazah, or authoritative license to practice the art of calligraphy, from the celebrated Turkish masters Hasan Çelebi and Efdaluddin Kılıç.
Calligraphy is a quintessential part of Arab and Muslim culture, an art form spanning the spiritual and material, the visual and the verbal. The artist's work delves into themes of interconnectedness, materiality, and transformation. She explores the idea that the materials she employs in her practice encapsulate the essence of the Earth's existence. The reed pen becomes an extension of her hand. Black ink, derived from carbon, serves as a link to the foundational element of all life. Her calligraphic sculpture, inspired by the human form, is inscribed with ink made from recycled carbon, suggesting a cyclical narrative of creation and destruction. Through her artistic process, she observes the transfiguration of familiar materials into new and meaningful forms, inviting viewers to contemplate the interconnectedness of all things.
From classical compositions to experimental expressions, this intimate showcase demonstrates the power of Arabic script and its enduring resonance and relevancy.
Visitors are invited to explore the evolution of calligraphy, from its roots in Islamic art to its contemporary interpretations, reflecting the artist's deep reverence for tradition coupled with a fearless exploration of new forms.
>> Book for 'Ink in Action: A drop-in observation and Q&A with calligrapher Soraya Syed' >>
Soraya will be in-person taking questions and demonstrating her craft.
Thursday, 30th May, 4-6 pm
Thursday, 6th June, 4-6 pm
Due to limited capacity, please book here.
Exhibition: 29th May - 9th June (Tuesday: Appointments only)