Islamic calligraphy plays an important role in Islamic culture for it is through the letters and words that the Divine Word is preserved and passed down to future generations. Islamic calligraphy, with chapters and verses from the Qur’an written in script, is a highly venerated art form. Calligraphers were, and still are, highly regarded artists throughout the Muslim world. Training takes many years, with the student learning to copy exactly the models provided by their teacher. While handwriting is functional and used to communicate, calligraphy is both aesthetic and functional with emphasis equally on its beauty and content. Calligraphy goes beyond handwriting because of its carefully developed cultural, religious and artistic significance. Traditionally, calligraphy is created using carved reed pens that are specially made for us in the art. Originally, Islamic calligraphy was viewed as a chain of transmission from the master to the students. There is a long apprentice-like period during which the student must perfect many courses of study before finally receiving formal recognition of their mastery of the art.
There are several different styles of calligraphy and the most commonly used styles are: Kufic, Naskh, Thuluth, Nasta’liq, Diwani. Students may concentrate on only one style or perfect several over the years. One script may require all vowels to be written, while another omits the vowels. Each style must be learned exactly and it is a very long, time-consuming process.
Prayers and Qur’anic verses using these styles can be seen gracing buildings, decorative pieces of art, wall hangings and framed artwork. There is an endless creativity and versatility with Islamic calligraphy as the artists express meanings in decorative, pleasing ways through a formal aesthetic code.
There are several different styles of calligraphy and the most commonly used styles are: Kufic, Naskh, Thuluth, Nasta’liq, Diwani. Students may concentrate on only one style or perfect several over the years. One script may require all vowels to be written, while another omits the vowels. Each style must be learned exactly and it is a very long, time-consuming process.
Prayers and Qur’anic verses using these styles can be seen gracing buildings, decorative pieces of art, wall hangings and framed artwork. There is an endless creativity and versatility with Islamic calligraphy as the artists express meanings in decorative, pleasing ways through a formal aesthetic code.