The annual Fujairah Conference of Calligraphy and Ornamentation took place from October 18th to 20th, hosted by the School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamad Al Sharqi. The event was held at the DoubleTree by Hilton and featured three days of engaging activities and discussions. Notably, the launch night was attended by Sheikh Rashed bin Hamad Al Sharqi and Dr. Ahmad Hamdan Alzyoudi , adding to the significance of this celebration of art and culture.
The annual Fujairah Conference of Calligraphy and Ornamentation was a groundbreaking international event, marking the first of its kind in Fujairah. The ceremony was initiated by the esteemed Emirati host and actor, Saoud Al Kaabi, who set an inspiring tone for the proceedings. General Manager Esra Al Hamal warmly welcomed all attendees, emphasising the significance of gathering individuals from around the globe to share their experiences and knowledge. This spirit of connection is vital for fostering a rich dialogue about the arts.
The conference aligns with the School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation’s core mission: to revive Islamic arts and underscore their relevance in today’s artistic landscape. By bringing together artists, scholars, and enthusiasts, the event serves as a platform to highlight the cultural heritage and innovative practices within Islamic art, reinforcing its importance and influence in contemporary society. This initiative not only celebrates traditional craftsmanship but also encourages new interpretations and collaborations, ensuring that the legacy of Islamic arts continues to thrive.
Key speakers at the Fujairah Conference of Calligraphy and Ornamentation came from diverse backgrounds, representing prestigious universities and organisations worldwide. The School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation had the distinct pleasure of hosting professors and artists from over 20 countries, including esteemed institutions such as the University of Cambridge, the University of Cape Town, Dokuz Eylul University, and many others.
These distinguished guests brought a wealth of knowledge and expertise, engaging in thought-provoking discussions and workshops that enriched the conference experience. Their contributions highlighted the global appreciation for calligraphy and ornamentation, showcasing various techniques and perspectives that reflect the vibrant tapestry of Islamic art.
The diverse lineup of speakers not only underscored the significance of international collaboration but also fostered a dynamic exchange of ideas that transcended cultural boundaries. Through lectures, demonstrations, and interactive sessions, participants were encouraged to explore new methodologies and innovations in their artistic practices. This collaborative atmosphere not only celebrated traditional techniques but also inspired the next generation of artists to integrate these rich histories into contemporary art, ensuring the continued evolution of this vital cultural heritage.
Key speakers – A recap
Prof. Dr. Nassar Mansour
Spoke about the various styles and schools of Arabic calligraphy, which are difficult to categorize because the rules of Arabic calligraphy are consistent across all countries. Nevertheless, critics have emerged with schools based on geographical affiliations. He concluded the lecture with modern artistic trends in Arabic calligraphy that could open avenues linked to philosophical directions.
Prof. Filiz Adıgüzel
Discussed the transfer of miniatures from manuscripts to contemporary art. An academic and researcher specialised in Turkish arts, she focuses on integrating traditional Islamic artistic forms with contemporary visual culture. She introduced the audience to new aspects of miniatures used in contemporary art and talked about a group of artists who have utilised the art of miniatures in their contemporary practices while preserving traditional techniques.
Dr. Ömer Kasım Kahiya
Spoke about his recently published book “My Grandfather the Calligrapher Muhammad Shawqi,” a biography of the great calligrapher Muhammad Shawqi written by his grandson in a diary and unpublished at the time. When researcher Omar Qasim Kahiya came across it, he republished it to provide a valuable artistic addition to the library of Arabic calligraphy.
Dr. Omniya Abdel Barr
Her lecture focused on the texts of Arabic calligraphy in the Beit Al-Zarar in Cairo, starting with an analysis of the architectural aspects of the house, before transitioning to the scripts, ornaments, and Quranic texts used as part of the house’s architecture.
Ms. Yasmin Faghihi
She discussed the technological evolution of manuscripts from paper to the modern era and the creation of specialized search mechanisms for manuscripts.
Dr. Suzana Molins Lletrás
Presented patterns of manuscripts in West Africa and studied and analyzed their elements.
Dr. Mamdouh Sakr
Discussed the architectural artistic structure of mosques in the Nile Delta and compared the similarities and differences between the mosques of Cairo.
Ms. Nuria Garcia
In her research, she traced the foundations of the calligraphic painting and when the concept of a “painting” originated, as well as the criteria that can be used to label a work as a “painting” in calligraphy.
Dr. Sara Choudhrey
Studied the geometric circular patterns in Islamic architecture and manuscripts, comparing them and, through her understanding of these patterns, created new artistic works using various materials.
Prof. Dr. Pablo Rosa Candás
Talked about Arabic writings in Spanish among Spanish Muslims.
Prof. Dr. Aftandil Erkinov
Discussed the calligraphers who copied Turkish manuscripts in Central Asia, specifically the manuscripts of Sheikh Ali Sir Nava’i, providing pictorial examples and addressing the developments and changes in the copied manuscripts.
Dr. Mohamed Hasan
Presented a new reading of Arabic calligraphy that highlights its expression of unique Islamic values and aesthetics, contributing to correcting misconceptions that affect the appreciation of this art, especially regarding contemporary challenges facing Arabic calligraphy such as modern technology.
Ms. Alia Raffia
Talked about how the House of Art adopted Arabic calligraphy and incorporated it into contemporary spaces to reach a wider audience.
