IRCICA Annual Ceremony – Istanbul, 27 May 2025
The School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation, represented by Mr. Khalid Al-Yami, participated in the annual ceremony organised by the Research Centre for Islamic History, Art and Culture (IRCICA) in Istanbul on 27 May 2025. This distinguished event brought together a select group of scholars, artists, and institutional representatives from across the Islamic world to celebrate excellence and creativity in the fields of Islamic art, calligraphy, and the preservation of manuscript heritage.
The purpose of the School’s participation was to represent the institution at a prestigious international platform, strengthen ties with IRCICA, and gain insights into best practices for organising culturally rooted artistic events. It also aimed to build professional relationships with experts and institutions specialising in Islamic art, calligraphy, and ornamentation.
The ceremony included several key segments, beginning with the opening address delivered by H.E. Dr. Mahmud Erol Kılıç, Director General of IRCICA. He emphasised the importance of preserving traditional arts and their vital role in strengthening cultural identity and promoting intercultural dialogue. The event also honoured a number of distinguished artists and researchers in Arabic calligraphy, manuscript preservation, and Islamic visual culture.
uring the ceremony, a number of fruitful meetings were held, most notably with representatives of IRCICA to discuss potential academic collaboration and the possibility of organising joint exhibitions in the future. Discussions were also held with award-winning calligraphers and artists regarding their potential participation in the upcoming International Calligraphy and Ornamentation Conference in Fujairah, scheduled from 17 to 19 October 2025. Additionally, a presentation was given on the School’s upcoming initiatives, including the School Arts Week (20–26 October) and the Awards Ceremony for the calligraphy and ornamentation competitions set for 13 December 2025. المؤتمر الدولي للخط والزخرفة في الفجيرة المزمع عقده في الفترة من 17 إلى 19 أكتوبر 2025. كذلك، تم تقديم نبذة عن أبرز مبادرات المدرسة القادمة، ومنها أسبوع فنون المدرسة (20–26 أكتوبر)، وحفل تكريم الفائزين في مسابقات الخط والزخرفة المقرر في 13 ديسمبر 2025
In conclusion, attending the IRCICA ceremony was an enriching and honourable experience that reflected the School’s commitment to its cultural and artistic mission. It reinforced its presence within the regional and international network of Islamic art practitioners. It is hoped that these partnerships will evolve into meaningful collaborations that serve the broader cause of art and heritage in the Islamic world.