Standing by his host nation is an obligation for Abdul Kareem, a calligrapher and graphic designer from the southern Indian state of Kerala.
“As an artist, I give vent to my creativity. I try to tap the potential of art to bring people together for the cause of Qatar,” he says. Popularly known as Kareemgraphy, the artist has attended various programmes hosted by different organisations in order to bring the communities together and highlight Qatar’s legacy and culture. These include the sand art show at Sealine Beach last year and the solidarity programme by expatriate cultural collective Bridge Qatar and Qatar National Theatre.
Besides, he drew a calligraphic portrait of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, and a calligraphy highlighting the iconic goal by Almoez Ali in the 2019 AFC Asian Cup. The two works drew much attention while His Highness the Amir’s portrait went viral, adorning streets, vehicles and buildings during various solidarity programmes and celebrations.
“In fact, blockade brought people together in an unprecedented way. And artists discharged their duties while making use of their works to make the nation stay together,” Kareem said.
At Sealine, a pictorial depiction of Qatar’s heritage and architectural landmarks was held last year and Kareem was part of the 12 member team which drew sketches of pearl diving, old boats, forts, old houses, oil refineries, Torch Tower as the mark of 2006 Asian Games, modern architectural designs at West Bay and Lusail, the Doha Metro track, as well as falcon representing the high spirits of Qatar, and the words ‘See you in 2022’ showing the excitement for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Kareem wrote ‘Qatar will remain independent’ in the sand. Kareem says he is trying to give back to Qatar which helped him conquer new heights. “I have worked and lived in various countries. But, Qatar helped me to grow and earn fame and I am obliged not to spare any opportunity that helps me express solidarity and strengthen its people and communities,” he added.
LIVE PORTRAIT: Kareemgraphy after completing a portrait of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani at an event.
