Exhibition on Arabic Calligraphy

Islamic calligraphy, also known as Arabic Calligraphy is the artistic practice of handwriting, calligraphy and by extension of bookmaking in the lands sharing a common Islamic cultural heritage. This art form is based on the Arabic script which for a long time was used by all Muslims in their Languages. They used it to represent the clevine words. Calligraphy is especially revered among Islamic arts since it was the primary means for the preservation of the Qur’an. suspiaion of figurative art as idolatrous led to calligraphy and abstract depictions becoming a major form of artistic expression in Islamic cultures, especially in religious contexts.

Calligraphy has arguable become the most venerated form of Islamic art because the Arabic script was the means of transmission of the Qur’an, has played an important role in the development and evolution of the Arabic Language and by extension, calligraphy in the Arabic alphabet. Proverbs and complete passages from the Qur’an are sources for Islamic Calligraphy.

The traditional instrument of the Arabic Calligraphy is the qalam, a pen made of dried reed or bamboo.

The ink is often in colour and cho- sen such that it contains a very high, intensity. Before the advent of paper, papyrus and parchment were used for writing. At present drawing equipments such as paint brushes, plate knife and rollers are used.

Though Arabic Calligraphy has a high value for its artistic nature it is in danger of losing its originality and in the verge of slipping away from the hearts of people. The attempt made by the principal Mrs. Mehar Banu Rasmil of Crescent International School- Thihariya to introduce this form of art among the students as an extracurricular activity should be appreciated. Under the supervision of Mrs. Marhana Nazeem, this programme had well established in two year period of time and has brought up an interest for many of the students.

The views of those students were remarkable “In the first class we hardly knew about calligraphy”, was the first remark given by many of the students. But the two year period of time has indeed brought a definite change over this remark. Their creative thoughts have been developed.

Their hidden talent in creative writing has shown a new face through calligraphy.