All art forms emphasize and express beauty in their own way. What’s different about calligraphy is that it has rules — it’s a skill that one has to know. One can express this in a modern contemporary style, but one cannot break the traditional rules required in the formation of letters.
Calligraphy is Spirituality: An interview with Turkish calligrapher Fatih Özkafa
In the art of calligraphy, the measure of the letters is also very important. A calligraphy artist works for years to write according to these measures. So, you cannot enlarge or shrink the letters as you wish, you cannot shorten them or elongate them as you feel. There are countless rules. But these rules further enhance the taste of this art.
Calligraphy is Creativity: An Interview with Master Artist Wissam Shawkat
The Forgotten Sacred Script: Profile of Master Artist Ian Whiteman
Finding light in Illumination: An interview with artist Behnaz Karjoo
Art and Spirituality: An interview with Artist Ayesha Gamiet
I think the inspiration to follow this path has been fueled by a desire to be fulfilled creatively and spiritually. The practice of Islamic art combines these elements so completely, and in such beautiful ways, I’m sure I’ll always be learning more and creating more. The learning never stops, and the possibilities are infinite.
Necmeddin Okyay (1883-1976): The Man Who Knew a Thousand Arts (Part 1)
In his book, Outliers, pop psych writer Malcolm Gladwell said it takes approximately 10,000 hours of “deliberate practice” to achieve mastery in any field. Now this may or may not apply to every discipline, but in my opinion extended hours of practice is certainly needed in fields like art, music and sports. So, how long would it take to master roughly 16 different skills?
Everything You Need to Know - April 29 Arabic Calligraphy Workshop
If you're reading this, you're most likely planning to attend our Saturday, April 29 arabic calligraphy workshop in Rockville, Maryland. If you aren't able to attend, no worries, but maybe this blog about one of our instructors will be more interesting for you.