Arabic calligraphy is a tradition that wrote itself — literally. The revered craft is more than 1,400 years old, and early scripts were used to write the first Quran. Over centuries, Arabic calligraphy has evolved from the practical to the beautiful — no longer just a way to share information, but also a form of art and an important part of Saudi’s cultural identity. Today, visitors will see traces of its letterforms throughout Arabia, from inscriptions in mosques to modern art.
<...A History of Arabic Calligraphy: From Jazm to Kufic
Arabic is thought to have evolved from the Nabataean dialect, with the earliest pre-Islamic inscriptions found in stone dating back to around the sixth century. The earliest form of Arabic script is known as Jazm, which led to a variety of other styles and forms, including Kufic, the first script used to write the Quran. As Islam spread during the seventh and eighth centuries, so did Arabic and the use of Kufic, which is known for its readability and geometric artistry. Over the years, different forms and styles of the script were born, and a more cursive script became predominant around the 12th century.
Throughout these changes, Arabic calligraphy evolved from simply a method of written communication into an artform. Arabic calligraphy is of such cultural importance that UNESCO is considering adding it to its list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Arabic Calligraphy in Saudi Today
In 2020, Saudi’s Ministry of Culture launched the Year of Arabic Calligraphy, an initiative for people and organizations to share ideas for promoting the art form. The initiative was extended through 2021; visitors can already see more calligraphy popping up in the form of street art in Riyadh’s tunnels and roadways and in beautification efforts on Makkah Road in Sakaka.
“I believe one of the most beautiful arts in human history is Arabic calligraphy and calligraphy in general,” Nugamshi says. “Everyone can get his time and try to make his mark and not use the same tools. I’m not a printer, I’m a human being — you are a human being. You need to have your mark.”
Experience Arabic Calligraphy
Head to the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) for a series of Arabic calligraphy programs, workshops, and exhibitions throughout 2021. Want more? Follow Nugamshi on Instagram to keep up with his latest performances and projects. Also, check out this free e-learning platform for Arabic calligraphy and Islamic decorative arts, which the Ministry of Culture launched as part of the Year of Arabic Calligraphy.
Learn about other Arabian traditions, including jewelry and Arabian horses, on visitsaudi.com.
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