Dubai: The reach of Quranic letters doesn’t end with its sound and meaning, it reaches the heart of people through more ways than one could imagine.
As much as it is a source of guidance and enlightenment for millions around the world, Quranic letters are a source of a powerful and endearing art form — the core of Arabic calligraphy.
Developed over the centuries across various Islamic cultural hubs through the golden age of Islamic and Arab renaissance, Arabic calligraphy took various design and art forms and has been central to Middle Eastern art canvas.
The art form is now seeing a revival of sorts through the government efforts to conserve and promote Arabic heritage among the young generation, part of it is an exhibition at Dubai International Holy Quran Awards (Dihqa) which is running for the third year in a row.
The exhibition, organised jointly by Dubai Culture and Dihqa, showcases works of Young Emarati calligraphers.
“This exhibition is part of a bigger body of work that covers the entire text of Holy Quran produced by young Emirati artists who are mostly girls. This is part of our effort to promote the ancient art form as well as giving exposure to young artists,” said Showki Ahmad Al Taher, member of Dihqa organising committee and coordinator of the exhibition.
Featuring 13 pieces of art produced in different style of calligraphy, ranging from Kufic and Naskh to Thuluth, the exhibition is a treat to the eyes even if one is unable to read the Arabic text.
Speaking to Gulf News, an official from Dubai Culture, who is part of the team that curated the exhibition said: “This exhibition is a glimpse of the biennial calligraphy exhibition we have in Dubai where we bring together works of top international artists along with those of the local artists. However, for this exhibition we thought of giving our local artists more exposure and showcased some of their best works.”
The exhibition is attracting hordes of admirers and art aficionados on the sidelines of Dihqa main programme.
“The beauty of Arabic calligraphy is that one can enjoy it without understanding what the text says, the designs are as powerful as the text,” said Ahmad Shams, a visitor.
Some of the artists featuring in the exhibition are Alia Al Muhairi, Fatima Jouri, Eman Al Muhairi and Nada al Maazmi.
Meanwhile, the Quran contest has entered its last phase with 74 out of 103 participants having finished their recitations in the first eight nights of the international competition.
Kuwaiti contestant, Omar Mahmood Al Rifai, is among the most notable performers over the last few days, with the 23-year-old giving a flawless performance in a soulful style.
The competition will end with an award ceremony on Thursday night.
