Doorway to Islamic Civilization Workshops Begin Nov 9-11, 2012 (Oakland, CA)




Zawaya

Oakland, CA

DOORWAY TO ISLAMIC CIVILIZATION:  HANDS-ON WORKSHOPS ON ISLAMIC ART & CULTURE
November 9, 10, 11, 2012

Islamic civilization boasts an intellectual, artistic, and cultural heritage that spans continents and centuries.   The gradations of shape, color, taste, texture, and sound that exist within and between Muslim peoples and cultures are as rich and diverse as their ideas and attitudes, as well as their languages, races, and ethnicities.  Out of this fertile and potent mix of elements emerged artforms and practices that can enrich and beautify our lives.

Zawaya thus launches an original event:  "Doorway to Islamic Civilization", a weekend collection of hands-on workshops on Islamic art and culture set against the current social backdrop of Islamophobia.  These workshops are meant to give those interested the opportunity to get to know Islam and Muslims by providing a safe space within which to explore and experience the Islamic sense of beauty embodied in art, crafts, music, architecture, and more.  In addition to the workshops, there will be a film showing of "Islamic Art: Mirror of the Invisible World" followed by a panel discussion between the filmmaker, Michael Wolfe, and Islamic art and architecture experts.  The Mevlevi Order of America will also be present to offer a Dhikr (a devotional act) by Mevlevi musicians and dervish turners.

Workshops are categorized into:  Art & Architecture, Arts & Crafts, Calligraphy, Lifestyle & Culture, Music, Writing, and Youth (5-15 years old).

This event is co-sponsored by The Afghan Coalition, The Arab Cultural and Community Center of San Francisco (ACCC), Arab Resource and Organizing Center (AROC), Aslan Media, The Center for Islamic Studies at the Graduate Theological Union (GTU)in Berkeley,  Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-SFBA), Interfaith Coalition for Immigrant Rights (CLUE CA), Islamic Cultural Center of Northern California (ICCNC), Islamic Network Group (ING), and Ziya Art Studio.

Events

Zawaya Film Showing: "Islamic Art: Mirror of the Invisible World"

November 09, 2012 7:30 PM
This is my event.
The "Doorway to Islamic Civilization" weekend-long event will kick off with a beautiful film: Islamic Art: Mirror of the Invisible World, followed by a panel discussion including filmmaker Michael Wolfe, and Islamic art and architecture experts Dr. Heba Mostafa, R. Hussain, Fateme Montazeri, and Arash Shirinbab. The panel discussion will be followed by live music by the Aswat Ensemble and refreshments.
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Workshop AA1: Islamic Ornamentation: Geometric Patterns

November 10, 2012 10:30 AM
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Learn traditional techniques using simple tools to create geometric shapes and tessellations widely used in Islamic art. At the end of the workshop, you will have created your own artwork in traditional blue and gold.
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Workshop AC1: Collaborative Painting: Lyrical Line

November 10, 2012 10:30 AM
This is my event.
You will be painting collaboratively with artist Salma Arastu and other participants to create four paintings with Qur'anic verses related to unity, peace, freedom, or love using painted Arabic calligraphy she calls "Lyrical Line". You will contribute to the creation of the artwork by writing or painting your own expressions in Arabic or your own language and style. No previous painting experience required.
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Workshop AC4: Islamic Patterns: Decoupage a Box

November 10, 2012 10:30 AM
This is my event.
In this workshop, you will explore the world of Islam through one facet of its material culture; in this case, decoupage. You will first be taken on a brief tour of decoupage in Islamic art, after which you will be guided to create a one-of-a kind object of your own, which you can take home.
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Workshop M1: Oud & Maqam

November 10, 2012 10:30 AM
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This workshop is geared towards those who are able to read notes, and already know how to play a plucked string instrument (such as a guitar). You will be gaining exposure to four maqaamaat,, all of which have Arab quarter tones and a sama'i. You will be provided with sheet music and a USB drive with two recordings of the sama'i that you can practice along to. Youth are welcome, but need to be advanced musicians.
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Workshop W2: Processing Islamophobia

November 10, 2012 10:30 AM
This is my event.
This workshop is for anyone interested in writing about and discussing Islamophobia. This includes men and women, young and old, persons who have experienced this and persons who have not, people of all faiths and nationalities. The workshop will begin with a short introductory session in which participants discuss what Islamophobia is, as it occurs in the media and elsewhere. Next they will write down some of their feelings and/or thoughts on the topic, including (but not limited to): their perceptions of the US media, their own experiences with hatred or fear of Islam, ways they handle Islamophobia when it arises both with regard to others and inside themselves, and ways the US might be influenced to become more tolerant and accepting of Muslims, at home and abroad. Writings will then be shared and discussed. Workshop participants will hopefully emerge more aware of Islamophobia and the role of the media in creating it, more conscious of their own feelings and ways of handling it, and more likely to deal with it effectively when they encounter it, whether in themselves or in other people.
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Workshop C2: Intro to Riq'a Style Calligraphy

November 10, 2012 11:00 AM
This is my event.
This workshop is an introduction to the different styles of calligraphy with a hands-on lesson on the basic elements of the Riq'a style. You will learn how to write letters in Riq'a calligraphy. It is a great first time lesson for anyone interested in taking a step toward the beautiful art of Arabic calligraphy. While it would be beneficial for you to know the Arabic alphabet, it is not required.
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Workshop AC2: Turning Rumi: Verses of Unity & Love

November 10, 2012 1:30 PM
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You will be creating an original cut-out of a Whirling Rumi, a whirling dervish figure, from a stencil. You will then paint this cut-out and write verses from Rumi. The finished product will be for you to take home to hang or display on a table. No previous painting experience required.
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Workshop AC5: Ottoman Marbling

November 10, 2012 1:30 PM
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In this workshop, you will be introduced to Islamic bookbinding and marbling techniques, after which you will be given the opportunity to explore marbling on your own and in small groups. The end product will be beautiful marbled papers to take home. No previous experience required.
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Workshop C1: Intro to Nasta'liq Style Calligraphy

November 10, 2012 1:30 PM
This is my event.
In this workshop, you will learn to recognize the key features of the Nasta'liq style of Arabic/Persian calligraphy, become familiar with traditional calligraphy tools, and learn to write letters and words using the Nasta'liq style. You will leave the workshop with your own attempts at the Nasta'liq style, and have your name or a word of your choice written for you in Nasta'liq style as a work of art from the artist/instructor. No previous calligraphy experience required.
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Workshop LC3: The Art of Henna

November 10, 2012 1:30 PM
This is my event.
In this workshop, you will learn the technique of applying henna, and creating your own designs. Skills taught will enable you to become a henna artist yourself! Henna application will be on the hand. No previous experience necessary.
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Workshop W1: Find Your Authentic Voice Through Writing Your Spiritual Story

November 10, 2012 1:30 PM
This is my event.
In this workshop, you will be engaged in a discussion aimed at exploring your personal relationship with religion and spirituality. You will be encouraged to share openly about the similarities and differences between your spiritual and religious experiences and practices, as well as how religion and spirituality influence your sense of identity. You will then be given techniques to help you write your own monologue that reflect the insights you have gained through workshop participation. You will complete a brief monologue, which you will then be encouraged to share with the class.
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Workshop M3: The Most Beautiful Names of God in Song

November 10, 2012 2:00 PM
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In this workshop, you will learn the Muslim practice of invoking God's 99 names, which are referred to as the most beautiful names of Allah. It is Muslim custom to recite these 99 names in different forms, including in songs of praise of God (zikr/ dhikr). This class aims to teach you to sing some of the most beautiful names of God, while explaining their meaning. You will also learn the different styles of music practiced in Muslim worship and in celebrations.
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Workshop AC3: Art on Glass

November 10, 2012 3:30 PM
This is my event.
In this workshop, you will learn glass painting techniques using Middle Eastern decorative designs. Small glass containers will be provided for you to paint on to apply those techniques. The finished product will be yours to take home.
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Workshop M2: Intro to Forms & Functions of Music in Islam

November 10, 2012 3:30 PM
This is my event.
This workshop will familiarize you with Islamic devotional and ceremonial music, including Qur'anic recitation and Sufi and ceremonial chanting, which occupy an important space in Islamic worship rituals and religious celebrations. You will learn the different musical forms in Islam and their function in religious practice. You will learn to sing excerpts from the most prominent and common chants and songs. Musicians will be present to allow you to experience the music live.
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Workshop LC2: Hijabi for a Day: Unveiling the Veil

November 10, 2012 4:00 PM
This is my event.
This workshop is a rare opportunity to partake in a discourse that reflects the complexity and diversity of Muslim women. You will be able to explore experiences and attitudes surrounding the veil or "hijab" in Islam and Muslim life in America. It will shed light on the experience of wearing the veil and keeping it on, wearing it and taking it off, and not having worn it all, and the reasons, attitudes, and consequences surrounding such choices. This will be facilitated through a panel discussion of different women who have each made different choices vis a vis the veil. The workshop will also provide you a chance to see the veil in a different light: Not only as a religious garment, but also a cultural one, and, finally, a fashion statement that is as much about self-expression as, say, Lady Gaga's meat dress is. The pièce de résistance of the workshop is your chance to wear the veil stylishly with the help of a "hijabi" fashionista stylist, and to be photographed in it in a fun photo booth! You will get to take home a digital copy of your picture and post it on your social media accounts!
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Workshop C3: Intro to Thuluth Style Calligraphy

November 10, 2012 4:30 PM
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This workshop will provide you with a brief history of Islamic calligraphy, teach you the basic principles of Thuluth style so that you may distinguish it from other styles, and will teach you to write your name and basic words in the Thuluth style.
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Workshop AA2: The Arabesque in Islamic Art and Architecture

November 10, 2012 5:30 PM
This is my event.
This hands-on workshop will explore the principles and history of the arabesque in Islamic art and architecture by exploring different styles of its form generation. You will leave the class with a stencil of your own design that you can then use for any craft project (for stencil printing on t-shirts, gift wrap paper, interior decoration, etc.)
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Workshop LC1: Perfume and Incense of the Islamic Golden Age

November 10, 2012 5:30 PM
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In this workshop, you will explore the role of scent in Islamic civilization. You will learn about the history of perfume use during the Islamic golden age and also be introduced to the Muslim scientists who revolutionized perfumery by discovering techniques that are used until now in the industry. You will get to examine common scents used in Muslim culture and use essential oils to formulate personal perfume and incense concoctions. No previous experience necessary.
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Estaughfur'llah Dhikr by the Mevlevi Order of America

November 10, 2012 7:30 PM
This is my event.
The Dervish tradition of whirling and sacred Turkish music provides the foundation of the Mevlevi dhikr (devotional act). The Estaughfur'llah Dhikr is a dynamic living prayer of forgiveness and remembrance of oneness, integrating chanting, movement, and music as a participatory experience.
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Workshop M7: Persian Music on Various Instruments

November 11, 2012 9:00 AM
This is my event.
This workshop is designed for advanced musicians who want to learn how to play Persian music on their respective instrument(s). You will gain an appreciation for the qualities of Persian music, and learn to play a few Persian pieces. No previous experience with Persian music necessary.
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Workshop AC6: Intro to Islamic Ceramics: Make Your Own!

November 11, 2012 10:00 AM
This is my event.
This workshop is for adults who have an interest in exploring the motifs, history, and forms of Islamic ceramics. You will first be presented with a brief history of Islamic ceramics. Thereafter, you will explore the world of ceramic design, create your own motif, transfer it to the plate, and paint it with 'traditional' colors. No previous experience required.
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Workshop C4: Intro to Deewani Style Calligraphy

November 11, 2012 10:00 AM
This is my event.
This workshop will provide you with an understanding of pen, paper, and ink in calligraphy; preparing the pen; and learning the Deewani style of writing and techniques. You will have a chance to write and practice in class. No previous experience necessary.
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Workshop Y1: Geometric Concepts in Islamic Art for Kids!

November 11, 2012 10:00 AM
This is my event.
This workshop is a glance into the never ending possibilities in geometric design. Students will learn about the significance of geometric design in Islamic art, and will then have the ability to create their own unique design using the principles of geometry. Finished designs will turn into beautiful decorative tiles embellished with the student's personal creative touch. The child will also gain a deeper appreciation and understanding for the use of geometric design in Islamic art. Students should be familiar with using a compass, and should have an understanding of basic measurements (center, radius, diameter, etc.). Familiarity with the use of paints is also important.
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Workshop M4: Christmas Carols from the Arab World

November 11, 2012 10:30 AM
This is my event.
This workshop introduces you to Christmas carols from Lebanon that consist of Arabic texts adapted to Western melodies. You will learn to sing Christmas carols that have a familiar Western tune such as Jingle Bells, O Come all Ye Faithul, and others all in Arabic. There are no prerequisites for this class. Just come and enjoy learning Christmas songs in the Arabic language!
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Workshop Y3: Intro to Middle Eastern Percussion for Kids!

November 11, 2012 10:30 AM
This is my event.
This workshop will allow kids to learn basic sounds and techniques used for playing drums in the Arab style. We will work together on a few fun rhythms used in popular and folk dance music of the Middle East. No previous experience with drums necessary.
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Workshop LC4: Common Islamic Expressions

November 11, 2012 11:00 AM
This is my event.
This workshop is designed to teach you the most common Islamic expressions that Muslims use daily in different contexts. You will learn the correct pronunciation, meaning, the proper usage in the different contexts, and will get to practice it with other participants. You will walk away from the workshop knowing how to insert such expressions in your conversations to surprise your Muslim friends, or if you don't have any, to use them in making many!
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Workshop W3: Women Writers' Workshop

November 11, 2012 11:00 AM
This is my event.
This workshop is for women to engage in a dialogue through creative writing. This dialogue will highlight similarities between Muslim women and women of other faiths. Through prompts from books written by Muslim women, you will learn how to write creatively to convey your thoughts and passions.
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Workshop AC7: Five Characteristics of Islamic Art: A Hands-On Painting Workshop

November 11, 2012 1:30 PM
This is my event.
In this workshop, you will gain an understanding of the major characteristics of Islamic art. Through examples and explanation, you then move to painting with acrylics on fabric, your own creative juxtaposition of any or all of the five characteristics, through use of pre-cut stencils. You will be able to take home a completed art project. Please come to class in clothes that welcome paint stains.
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Workshop C5: Reed/Bamboo Pen Making

November 11, 2012 1:30 PM
This is my event.
This workshop will equip you with skills on how to make a calligraphy pen from reed or bamboo, and how to write beautifully with it. No previous experience necessary.
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Workshop M5: Christian and Muslim Hymns from the Arab World

November 11, 2012 1:30 PM
This is my event.
This workshop introduces you to Christian and Islamic hymns from the Arab world. You will get to examine musical similarities and differences between the two traditions. You will learn to sing religious hymns in Arabic from the Christian and Islamic traditions in the Arab world. There are no prerequisites for this workshop.
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Workshop M8: Intro to Middle Eastern Percussion

November 11, 2012 1:30 PM
This is my event.
This workshop will allow you to learn basic sounds and techniques used for playing drums in the Arab style. We will work together on rhythms used in popular and folk dance music of the Middle East. No previous experience with drums necessary.
[View Event]

Workshop Y2: Mosaic Tiling and the Concept of Reflection for Kids!

November 11, 2012 1:30 PM
This is my event.
This workshop will focus on two aspects of Islamic art: One being the technical aspect of mosaic tiling, and the other the important concept of reflection. Students will learn some of the symbolism behind the mosaic tiling, and then will work on piecing together their own work of art. The framed mirror will not only help them reflect upon themselves externally, but will mirror an internal reflection, as it is decorated with the student's imagination and creativity. Students are expected to have a basic understanding of the use of paint and glue.
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Workshop Y4: Henna Style: Temporary Tattoos for Kids!

November 11, 2012 1:30 PM
This is my event.
This workshop is for children ages 8-16 who are interested in exploring Near Eastern culture and design. Kids will be shown a short slideshow of different styles of henna. From Morocco to India, Muslims have practiced this ancient art, and the students will then be asked to talk about which style is their favorite and why, and then they will be allowed to experiment with henna tattoos.
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Workshop M6: Advanced Qanun: Arab, Azari, Persian, & Turkish

November 11, 2012 2:00 PM
This is my event.
This workshop is an exploration of Arab, Azari, Persian, and Turkish music on the qanun for advanced qanun players. We will refresh our knowledge of the qanun and how it is made, and learn maqams on the qanun, transposing maqamat, the relationship of different maqamat to each other, playing songs in different keys, and appreciating that every nationality has its own accent in rhythms. While music sheets will be provided, the ability to read notes is not necessary.
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Workshop Y5: Christmas Carols from the Arab World

November 11, 2012 3:30 PM
This is my event.
This workshop introduces students to Christmas carols from the Arab World that consist of Arabic texts adapted to Western melodies. Children will learn to sing Christmas carols in Arabic adapted to Western tunes such as Jingle Bells, O Come All Ye Faithful, and others. There are no prerequisites for this class. Children can just come and enjoy learning Christmas songs in the Arabic language.
[View Event]

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