Sharjah Calligraphy Forum draws over 30,000 visitors

The 11th edition of the Sharjah Calligraphy Forum, under the theme “Numerals” wrapped up on Saturday following a two-month celebration dedicated to Arabic calligraphy, drawing 30,000 visitors from around the world.

The forum, organised by the Cultural Affairs Department of the Sharjah Department of Culture and held under the patronage of Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qaismi, took place from Oct.2 to Nov.30 at various locations throughout the emirate.

This year’s edition achieved a remarkable milestone, attracting more than 30,000 visitors from around the world.

The event highlighted over 600 artworks created by 260 artists from diverse countries and included 94 activities such as exhibitions, workshops, lectures, and seminars, in partnership with more than 30 institutions in Sharjah.

The forum brought together local, regional, and international delegations, reinforcing Sharjah’s position as a global centre for cultural and artistic exchange.

Mohammed Ibrahim Al Qaseer, the Director of the Cultural Affairs Department at the Sharjah Department of Culture and head of the Sharjah Calligraphy Forum, stated that the event is in line with the vision of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi. This vision aims to elevate Arabic calligraphy as a genuine Islamic art form and an important aspect of historical heritage.”

“Thanks to the ongoing support of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Arabic calligraphy has once again flashing its artistic brightness. The 11th edition of the forum solidified its legacy by showcasing a variety of artistic viewpoints,” stated Al Qaseer.

The forum’s varied schedule included 30 exhibits, 94 activities, and 611 pieces of art, including traditional calligraphy, murals, and and installations. 57 seminars and visual presentations that all showcased different calligraphy styles and methods.

Four lectures on recent advancements in Arabic calligraphy and a significant international symposium titled “Arabic Calligraphy – Methods and Schools,” hosted in the House of Wisdom, comprised the forum’s theoretical component. 86 people attended the event as well, including lecturers, calligraphers, media professionals, and workshop supervisors.

The “Reviving Scripts” exhibition, which included 67 original works by five artists committed to conserving old scripts, was one noteworthy highlight.

The forum honoured several artists for their important contributions to the art of Arabic calligraphy.

The Sharjah Calligraphy Forum continues to elevate the status of Arabic calligraphy, blending heritage with contemporary artistry, and ensuring its enduring presence on the global cultural stage.

Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated, Wednesday evening, the 11th edition of the Sharjah Calligraphy Forum on Oct.3, under the patronage of Sheikh Sultan.

Upon his arrival, Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed toured the main exhibition, receiving a detailed overview of the diverse artworks on display.

The Deputy Ruler of Sharjah visited the “In Love with the UAE” exhibition, organised by the Emirates Society for Arabic Calligraphy and Islamic Ornamentation.

During his visit, he learned about the diverse creations of calligraphers, which showcase themes of patriotism, featuring poetic texts and well-known phrases that express love for the homeland.

The Society presented a notable artwork as a token of gratitude to the Ruler of Sharjah, acknowledging his unwavering support for the arts, particularly Arabic calligraphy.

The gifted piece features a poem by the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, elegantly inscribed in bold Diwani script shaped like an eye, symbolising generosity and kindness.

The message encourages young people to cherish their country and appreciate their blessings. This work was created by Fatima Salmeen, a student from the Arabic calligraphy courses in the Eastern Region.

WAM