I have been taking Thuluth calligraphy classes for three years with Nuria Garcia Masip Hoja, a master calligrapher. Initially, I was attracted to the program for its calligraphy aspect, which allowed me to meet others masters calligraphers and participate in various calligraphy workshops. It also opened the door to authentic calligraphic works displayed in mosques, museums, private collections, and sometimes even on the streets of Istanbul. All of this had previously seemed inaccessible to me. Among the highlights of this trip were visits to various mosques, whose ceilings are adorned with magnificent calligraphies. One never grows tired of gazing up at these masterpieces. Moreover, the mosques’ architecture was equally captivating, with each structure featuring a unique style that tells the story of its origins or settings. I discovered new architectures of mosques, markedly different from those I had known before. I also have excellent memories of the workshops where we discovered other sacred arts previously unknown to me, such as "Ebru" work, which we were able to experiment with and practice under the invaluable guidance of the master. But above all, what I particularly appreciated was the warm welcome we received at each visit. At every stop, we were greeted with great kindness and consideration, and we could feel it every time, despite the language barrier. Then, This trip was also distinguished by its remarkable organization. The organizers, passionate and highly cultured, mash'Allah, have an intimate knowledge of the area and the history of each site, which allowed us to benefit from rich cultural, historical, and even spiritual insights. Finally, I would like to add that beyond a journey to discover the sacred arts of Islam (ebru, geometric art, calligraphy, porcelain, miniatures, etc.), this trip was above all a true spiritual journey. I was able to experience a bit of spirituality in Turkey through invocations (dhikr) and chants, or simply through the presence and spirit of certain people. And that was a wonderful surprise, because it wasn't my main objective. About the group , all members were friendly and welcoming; the trip was pleasant and respectful for everyone. I met some wonderful and kind people, from whom I learned a great deal. I'm still in touch with some of whom. In short, it was a wonderful trip that I would be delighted to relive, insh'Allah, if the opportunity arises. I can only encourage those who are still hesitant to embark on this journey with complete confidence. Thanks again to the team for this fabulous trip!

- Rajae Hafid

This was my third time taking this trip, and honestly, it never gets old. Every time, it offers something new while also grounding me in something familiar and deeply meaningful.

We visited some incredible places again, like the Grand Mosque in Bursa and Rumi’s mausoleum in Konya. Even though the pace was hectic and the schedule full, we covered a lot and shared some truly memorable moments along the way.

The fact that I’ve done this trip three times says a lot about Meetings with Masters. They’ve created something meaningful that keeps drawing me back — the mix of history, spirituality, beauty, and the people you meet along the way.

Looking forward to the next one, in'sha’Allah.

- Rizwana Shaikh

As a beginner in art of calligraphy, I have been enthusiastic at the announcement of the next Meeting with masters by our teacher in calligraphy, to be held in June 2025.

My expectations were great and I was in a hurry to discover the art of ancient and present Masters…and I came back home more enthusiastic than before the Meeting.

The program was designed with care and wide as to let us appreciate different crafts and skills from architecture to calligraphy, art of painting(faience) and dikr and samaa, conveying a unique preview of islamic arts converging with spirituality.

I appreciated very much and was impressed by the great beauty of the artifacts displayed in many mosks in Istanbul, Bursa and Konya, in the imperial palace of Topkapi, in art galleries (Istanbul), in Kutahya,…

As our group was small enough, we had the opportunity (and the privilege) to meet artists and eventually exchange a little with them in a very kind atmosphere of grace, simplicity and humility.

I would warmly recommend this Meeting even to beginners as me and I would be happy to redo it again (almost as a pilgrimage) in the near future if possible.

- Hadji  Hamidou