Qatar Foundation exhibits beauty of Arabic calligraphy

Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF) is hosting a calligraphy exhibition, titled “The Arabic Script”, to promote a greater understanding of the cultural, religious and artistic significance of this art form.

The exhibition, organised by Qatar Foundation Community Services, is open to the public from 9am to 6pm at the AaQool Atrium in the Qatar Foundation Recreation Centre within Education City until September 30.

The artistic collection has been assembled by private collector Ibrahim Fakhroo, who has gathered these timeless pieces during his travels around the world. The display includes authentic calligraphy artworks dating as far back as the 9th century and showcases the finest pieces from famous calligraphers Hamdulla al-Amasi and Hafiz Osman, in addition to the exceptional work of Qatari calligrapher Ali Hassan al-Jaber.

The opening of the exhibition, which aims to shed light on the beauty and evolution of Islamic calligraphy over the centuries, was attended by a number of senior representatives from QF, including Jassim Telefat, Group executive director of Qatar Foundation Capital Projects and Facilities Management, and Mohamed al-Naimi, Recreation Services manager at Qatar Foundation Support Services.

Commenting on the meaningful connection between Islamic art and the community, al-Naimi said: “Qatar Foundation is keen to support events and initiatives that help promote the cultural and educational aspects of community development. The exhibition seeks to immerse the QF community in Arab culture by illustrating how this artwork represents Qatar and other Islamic countries.

“‘The Arabic Script’ will increase awareness about how valuable and beautiful the art of Islamic calligraphy is, and how essential it is to the community.”

The exhibition is being staged in three main categories: the start of Arabic calligraphy, the evolution stage and the modern stage.

Fakhroo, collector of “The Arabic Script”, explained: “The event’s main aim is to encourage the preservation and appreciation of Islamic art, while nurturing an understanding of its cultural and historical significance.

“Islamic art is the most attractive art that substantiates our culture, history and tradition. The Arabic character has evolved over the years and is now used as an art tool. One can find the Arabic letter used here as artwork expressed through various mediums, ranging from manuscripts and ceramic to textiles and wood. This results in each calligraphic art piece having its own unique identity.”

Ameera Mohamed al-Aji, Community Services supervisor at Qatar Foundation Community Services, explained that one of the exhibition’s primary objectives was to introduce everyone to the concept of collecting art and reveal the significance of preserving Arabic and Islamic heritage.

“When we first thought about organising the exhibition, we were eager to introduce the community to the efforts of art collectors and to showcase the dedication of individuals who have a passion for preserving history,” she added.

Qatar Foundation Community Services will organise field trips for school and university students eager to attend the exhibition. Those interested can email communityservices@qf.org.qa