Course: Spring 2019

Update: This course has started and is fully booked.

I will be giving an online Arabic type design class starting April 15, 2019 and the hope is that we can bring together people who are interested in Arabic type design from different countries. So now you can study with me, from the comfort of your own apartment or office. Very excited to connect with you all! Full details below!

Who is the course intended for?

Anyone interested in Arabic type design! Those with previous knowledge will be able to progress more, but the course is structured in 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 will be taught in English.

Course structure:

The course will be comprised of 10 weekly sessions of 2 to 3 hours each, following the plan below:

Session 1 — April 15: Introduction to the Arabic script and calligraphic styles; 2 hours

Session 2 — April 22 (29): Introduction to Arabic typographic styles: Kufi + Glyphs; 2 hours

Session 3 — May 8 (6): Review of Project 1 (structural analysis of one Kufi style); 2 hours

Session 4 — May 13: Introduction to Arabic typographic styles: Naskh; 2 hours

Session 5 — May 20: Review of Project 2 (structural analysis of one Naskh style); 2 hours

Session 6 — May 27: Type Design basics; 2 hours

Session 7 — June 3: Review of Project 3 (first draft); 3 hours

Session 8 — June 10: Review of Project 3 (basic character set); 3 hours

Session 9 — June 17: Review of Project 3 (expanded set); 3 hours

Session 10 — June 24: Review of Project 3 (full set); 3 hours

Sessions always start at 5pm London time.

Course materials and projects:

The participants will be required to prepare for each session and typically that will be comprised of the provided course readings as well as watching 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 will have a maximum of 10 participants. This is to ensure 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 video conferencing link that would be provided. A stable internet connection is required, as well as the Glyphs software on a Mac.

Fees and registration:

The course fee is £850 (plus VAT if applicable) and is non-refundable. To register, please email nadine@arabictype.com