Aisha Imam shared her journey as a student of Arabic calligraphy (Ottoman school) under the guidance of Mohamed Zakariya, who played a pivotal role in introducing and elevating the art form in the United States. Zakariya’s works have been acquired by major institutions, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City and The Walters Art Museum in Baltimore.
During her presentation, Aisha Imam offered a brief history of calligraphy, highlighted the unique characteristics of artistic transmission, and reflected on the significant role that sacred arts and music play in building and strengthening community. Guests had the opportunity to view original works and try their own hand at Arabic calligraphy using traditional reed pens.
Aisha Imam is the founder and director of Reed Society for the Sacred Arts, a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to promoting sacred art and music. Under her leadership, the Reed Society curated a calligraphy exhibition in 2022 featuring the works of Mohamed Zakariya and his students. She has served on the Islamic Art Advisory Committee at The Walters Art Museum in Baltimore and has collaborated with the Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage, as well as numerous universities and nonprofit organizations across the United States, to advance the appreciation of Islamic art and music. Aisha is also an aspiring calligrapher who studied under Mohamed Zakariya for over a decade.
July 15, 2025