Led by visionaries across various fields of music, calligraphy, illumination and movement, these workshops have been designed to reflect the creative emphasis of the festival’s Founder and Visionary, Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, which lies not only in performance, but also the transformative power of artistic practice.
Breathwork, handpan orchestras and art illumination on November 23
Day two of the festival on November 23 will begin with a Breathwork Session led by Walid Aboulnaga, founder of NAFAS Journeys and a certified breathwork facilitator. Known for guiding participants through transformative journeys of self-discovery, Aboulnaga’s workshop promises a meditative experience designed to rejuvenate both mind and body.
The spotlight will also turn to Middle East’s first handpan player Anas Alhalabi and his Anas Handpan Orchestra. He will demonstrate his fusion of percussion and melody, offering participants a chance to explore new ways of making music in this deeply interactive session.
This will be followed by a workshop introduced by The School of Calligraphy & Ornamentation, hosted by Dr. Esra Alhamal and Mostafa Sedky. They will give a workshop titled 'Illumination and Geometry', where Dr. Alhamal will focus on the illumination aspect, and Mr. Sedky will cover sacred geometry. The internationally exhibited artists will introduce participants to the intricate art of Islamic illumination, bridging tradition with contemporary art techniques.
In a blend of music, energy and movement, Dr. Farima Berenji’s Sufi Whirling Workshop will enthral the audience as this Sufi master and movement ethnologist will explore the spiritual practice of whirling as a means of connecting people to culture.
For those fascinated by the intersection of visual art and culture, Julien Breton’s Calligraphy Lighting Workshop is an unmissable opportunity to witness the creation of an extraordinary fusion of Arabic calligraphy and light painting. Breton’s workshops will teach participants how to turn calligraphic strokes into luminous, ephemeral masterpieces.
Whirling, calligraphy and light painting on Nov 24
The third and final day of the festival will commence with a Sound Immersion Workshop presented by Zarine Dadachanji. As an experienced facilitator for sound immersive experiences, Zarine will guide participants through an auditory journey using various sound tools and techniques to promote relaxation and healing.
Following this immersive experience, attendees can participate in a Whirling Workshop by the whirling dervishes of Damascus. This session will allow participants to experience the dance that has been a hallmark of Sufism for centuries.
The Sharjah Center for Arabic Calligraphy and Ornamentation is hosting a practical workshop focused on the Ruq’ah and Diwani scripts. Led by Iraqi calligrapher Mohammed Al-Nouri and Syrian calligrapher Mohammed Farouk Al-Haddad, the workshop aims to train male and female students under the age of 15 in the art of Arabic calligraphy. It includes theoretical discussions highlighting the key differences in Arabic calligraphy, featuring detailed explanations from the instructors.
Lastly, Julien Breton will once again showcase his Calligraphy Lighting Workshop and The School of Calligraphy & Ornamentation will present its Illumination and Geometry workshop for those that missed the opportunity to participate on day two.
Each workshop is designed to provide a space for attendees to reflect, connect and discover new dimensions of creativity. The unique setting of Mleiha further enhances this experience, blending art, nature and history into a single transformative journey.
For more information on Tanweer Festival workshops, visit www.tanweerfestival.com.
For an optimal experience, please
