A collection of Mr. Dukhan�s modern Arabic calligraphy is showcased in the Syntax: \sin-,taks�\ exhibition through June 5th. He will speak on the history and style of his art in a lecture entitled Before Your Eyes: History and Styles of Arabic Calligraphy. This free event will appeal to art and history buffs alike.

The lecture will focus on the history, development, techniques and styles of Arabic/Islamic calligraphy. The lecture will explore the origins of Arabic script as well as its relationship with precise geometry, rhythm and visual impact. A historical discussion of Islam and the Ottoman Empire will be crucial to understanding the artform. Dukhan will include calligraphy examples from different styles, regions, and periods of time as well as a visual description of his modern style of this ancient art.

Nihad Dukhan was born in central Gaza Strip, Palestine and received his Ph.D. in mechanical engineering from the University of Toledo in 1996. He is currently an associate professor of mechanical engineering at the University of Detroit Mercy. His work has been exhibited in major US cities and has been sold both here and abroad.

Dukhan describes his work as being derivative of a �personal impulse within a vast culture� a result of receptivity to impulses that come from my larger environment as well as to those that come from within.� Through his simple, yet elegant designs, he seeks to �cross barriers and directly touch people who come from diverse cultures and speak different languages.�

For more information, please contact Brook Bower, TCVA Assistant Curator (828)-262-7520 or Cassie McDowell, TCVA Exhibitions Coordinator (828) 262-2919. Additional information may be found at www.tcva.org.

(Images provided by The Turchin Center.)

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