Sacred Lines, Luminous Pages: Exploring Arabic Calligraphy and Illumination

Celebrate Arab American Heritage Month with a family-friendly demonstration and display that bring art, history, and creativity together. This special program introduces visitors to the beauty of Islamic calligraphy and illumination through the work of two internationally recognized artists whose practices honor tradition while inviting curiosity and wonder.

Illuminator Behnaz Karjoo will share her vibrant world of tazhib (illumination), miniature painting, and geometric design. Families will enjoy seeing how patterns, symbolism, and careful craftsmanship come together to decorate sacred and poetic texts, while learning how these traditions continue to evolve today.

Calligrapher Khalid Casado will demonstrate the graceful art of Arabic calligraphy, revealing how letters become works of art through rhythm, balance, and patience. 

While at the museum, be sure to check out Emblem of a Civilization: Prologue to the Art of Arabic and Islamic Calligraphy with calligrapher Nihad Dukhan in the Lecture Hall at 2 p.m.

Both programs are presented in collaboration with the Reed Society for the Sacred Arts.