Today's Edition
AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)
Art as beautiful as Arabic calligraphy deserves the global spotlight, and the UAE has been at the forefront of keeping this ancient art form alive amid the rapid developments of the modern world.
On World Calligraphy Day, marked every second Wednesday of August, Aletihad highlights the significance of this artistic expression as a cultural treasure for the UAE and the Arab world.
Arabic calligraphy was inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list in December 2021, and the UAE is among the 16 countries that have made it happen.
UNESCO described the art form as “the artistic practice of handwriting Arabic script in a fluid manner to convey harmony, grace and beauty.”
“The fluidity of Arabic script offers infinite possibilities, even within a single word, as letters can be stretched and transformed in numerous ways to create different motifs,” it said.
Arabic calligraphy is more than just a writing technique: its flowing lines, curves, and complex forms represent centuries of artistic tradition, as well as the richness and elegance of the language.
It was born out of Arab speakers’ need to develop the language and create letters and shapes that capture “the spirit and culture of Arab and Islamic societies,” Abu Dhabi Culture said in a primer on its website.
“Over time, as the importance of the Arabic language grew, specialised art forms and calligraphy schools were established with innovative curricula,” it added.
At a time when most writing needs are met by tapping away on screens and keyboards, the UAE ensures there remains a permanent space for the art of putting ink on paper and turning Arabic script into a masterpiece.
The UAE has established itself as a leader in preserving and advancing Arabic calligraphy through numerous initiatives – including exhibitions and festivals – within the country and beyond.
“This has encouraged new developments and innovations in calligraphy and other arts,” Abu Dhabi Culture said.
The Department of Culture and Tourism in Abu Dhabi has been committed to supporting this art form since its early days. Through the years, it has organised events and activities that encourage development in the field. It has also set up a dedicated department for teaching the art.
The Ministry of Culture, through awards like the prestigious Al Burda Award, has played a pivotal role in encouraging global participation and recognition of the art.
Cultural organisations regularly hold workshops, competitions, and exhibitions, combining traditional techniques with modern resources.
In 2023, more than 200 artists from around the world participated in the inaugural Dubai Calligraphy Biennale, which was organised by Dubai Culture.
The beauty and development of Arabic script in visual art were emphasised by exhibitions such as the “History of Arabic Calligraphy in the UAE” at Al Shindagha Museum and the “Light Lines” photography display.
Various entities in the country also ensure the art form remains relevant through impactful discussions and open dialogues.
The 2024 panel discussion “Arabic Calligraphy: Between Creativity and Renewal” at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library was one such effort that brought together well-known calligraphers and artists.
Arabic calligraphy has evolved through time, from the geometric Kufic script to the elegant, flowing Naskh, and contemporary freestyle typefaces.
While maintaining the discipline and internal logic of the art form, artists today experiment with both traditional and digital forms, developing new designs for branding, book design, posters, and commercial use.
By actively supporting and celebrating this heritage, the UAE has not only safeguarded Arabic calligraphy but also elevated it on the global stage, establishing itself as a vibrant centre for creatives, artists, and calligraphers from around the world.
