The
art of every people constitutes part of their culture as well as
their pride. Arabic calligraphy is the central original Islamic
art, which our ancestors mastered. They perfected its scripts,
designs, and decorations, turning it into a great and eternal art.
Throughout history, Arabic calligraphy has reflected the essence
of our Arab and Islamic art, mirroring its spirit and nature and
representing its progress. Arabic calligraphy has managed to be a
genuine expression of each age in the history of Arabic and
Islamic art and has been a living and developing creation, passing
through different stages of change and with many types.
Some
of the scripts died out because of their inability to develop.
Other types, however, interacted directly with the people’s’
lives, and their letters crystallized the genius of Muslim and
Arabic art, reaching the climax of beauty and the peak of
creativity. No other people has ever handled writing in such an
artistic way. Arabic calligraphy turned into the origin of all
arts, thanks to the fact that it derives its nobility and
greatness from the Qur’anic verses.
However,
unfortunately, while other cultures became interested in this art
form, we as Arabs and Muslims overlooked this great art, which is
closely related to Islam, and borrowed other arts from the West.
We have almost lost touch with calligraphy’s true essence and
origins.
This
article is an attempt to rediscover this beautiful art, examining
its origin, progress, types, tools, and figures.
