Introductory Ottoman Calligraphy Workshop

This workshop introduces participants to the traditional art of Ottoman calligraphy and its close relationship with ebru. Designed for beginners, the session will introduce the principal tools and materials used in classical calligraphy, including the traditional reed pen and ink, before exploring the basic principles of letter formation, proportion and composition. Rizwan Ahmed Khan will introduce the traditional method of learning calligraphy through meşk (guided calligraphy practice under a master), demonstrating how letters and forms are developed through repeated practice. Participants will have the opportunity to work directly with traditional calligraphy tools and practise basic forms under Rizwan’s guidance. No previous experience is required, and all materials will be provided. Age Requirement: 15+ This practical workshop accompanies Script and Pattern: Akkase Ebru, an exhibition featuring the work of Prof. Ahmet Sacit Açıkgözoğlu and exploring the arts of ebru and calligraphy within the wider context of Ottoman manuscript culture. Please note that doors will close shortly before the advertised time so we request that you arrive 15 minutes before the start time. In collaboration with Yunus Emre Enstitüsü - London (@yeelondra), a registered charity promoting Turkish language and culture About Rizwan Ahmed Khan Rizwan Ahmed Khan (b. 1991) is a classically trained calligraphic artist who has been practising the scribal arts since 2015. Born and raised in London, he has studied both Western and Islamic calligraphy with a number of distinguished practitioners, including Gaynor Goffe, Soraya Syed and Ivo Grantins. In 2018, he moved to Istanbul to pursue intensive training in the Ottoman tradition of Islamic calligraphy, studying with Efdaluddin Kılıç. In 2022, he was awarded his icazetname (traditional calligrapher’s licence) at the Research Centre for Islamic History, Art and Culture (IRCICA) in Istanbul. Rizwan continues to practise and teach calligraphy between London and Istanbul, drawing on both Islamic and Western lettering traditions in his work. About the Yunus Emre Enstitüsü Established in 2010, Yunus Emre Enstitüsü - London is the Republic of Türkiye’s official cultural institute, promoting Turkish language and culture worldwide through more than 90 centres abroad. The Institute delivers a structured programme of cultural events, exhibitions, and Turkish language courses, supporting cultural engagement between Türkiye and the United Kingdom. Through its educational and cultural activities, the Institute provides access to Türkiye’s artistic heritage and contemporary cultural production, serving a wide and diverse audience. About The Cambridge Festival of Islamic Arts The Cambridge Festival of Islamic Arts runs from 19 to 29 November 2026, bringing performances, exhibitions, lectures, and workshops to Cambridge's historic colleges, museums, and cultural spaces. Open to everyone, the festival celebrates the beauty and diversity of Islamic arts, and, fifty years on from the landmark 1976 World of Islam Festival, carries that spirit into our own time. Find out more at cfia.co.uk.