we marked the moons of 2025

﷽

I pray this holy month of Rajab brings blessings and relief to all Muslims.

Throughout the year, I often lose track of the Islamic month, and when I see the moon, I sometimes can't remember which month it is. I’ve always wanted to create a calendar that tracks some of the most special moons of the coming year alongside their corresponding Gregorian and Islamic dates.

This year, with the kids, we finally made a first draft. We noted the important Islamic dates of 2025 and their corresponding moons and Gregorian dates. Insha’Allah, future years' will be more beautiful.

I love working on projects that are not just aesthetically pleasing but also functional or informational. In my book, A Children’s Study of Islamic Art I often emphasize that traditional Islamic art was rarely made for art’s sake alone but to enhance something functional.

In the chapter on science and Islamic art, I highlight numerous examples of scientific objects beautified with gold and calligraphy, offering reminders of their purpose. For instance, an astrolabe might include a Quranic verse urging us to reflect on the stars, grounding its scientific utility in a spiritual context.

I believe it’s vital to reconnect science and nature to Allah and our purpose here. Without that connection, the deeper point of studying science—or anything else—can be lost.

Above: The perpetual calendar children's project in the book A Children's Study of Islamic Art

In other news, we recently released our latest Nikahnama design, The Sakina, in lavender, teal, and white. It’s a recolored and remixed version of a classic Ottoman piece. I’m already brainstorming ideas for the next design—maybe a miniature?

Wishing you a blessed and prayerful Rajab,
Nushmia