Artist Khaled al-Saa'i will make a special appearance at UMMA's November Fridays After 5 event. The Syrian born artist will discuss the ways in which he uses calligraphic forms is his own work and lead a hands-on demonstration that introduces traditional and modern day Arabic calligraphy. Mr. al-Saa'i will introduce variations of traditional Arabic calligraphic scripts, the function and quality of each one, and the traditional tools used to create them. He will also introduce Sunbuli script, the late Ottoman cursive known for its compact combinations, by demonstrating individual letters and words. Audience members will have the chance to try their hand at creating this unique style of script. Mr. al-Saa'i will also explore the expressive possibilities of calligraphic lettering, moving beyond the rules of writing and language, and highlighting his own historic and recent work. Work in UMMA’s collection by Mr. al-Saa’i will be on view on the Lower Level for browsing before and after the program until 8:00 p.m.This program is co-sponsored by the University of Michigan History of Art Department, the Institute for the Humanities, and UMMA.