page from qur'an, featuring Arabic calligraphy on paper

Arab American Heritage Month

Born in Palestine and based in Michigan, artist Nihad Dukhan is a certified master of both Arabic and Islamic calligraphy. Although an expert in multiple script styles, Dukhan has a penchant for riqa’—while this Arabic script fell out of popularity over the last few hundred years, Dukhan believes its aesthetic suits 21st-century tastes.

In Fatiha in Riqqa’ (2023), the artist applies riqa’ to the Fatiha, the opening sura, or chapter, of the Qur’an, which followers of Islam recite during the five daily prayers.

Celebrate Arab American Heritage Month with a visit to our Arts of Islamic Cultures Gallery (gallery 175) to view Dukhan’s work and the work of other Arab American artists, including Wasma’a Chorbachi.

Pierre Terjanian in gray suit and dotted tie standing in hallway filled with natural light

Pierre Terjanian Appointed as MFA’s Next Director

Pierre Terjanian has been appointed as the MFA’s next Ann and Graham Gund Director and CEO. Currently the Museum’s Chief of Curatorial Affairs and Conservation, Pierre succeeds Matthew Teitelbaum and will assume his new role on July 1, 2025.

Please see our press release for more information.