Welcome to the world of Calligraphy
How often do people feel the urge to write a decorative hand while writing their projects? Well, writing in a decorative hand is an art. Etymologically, the Greek word “Calli” means “Beautiful” and “graph” means “To write and record.” So, the term “calligraphy” literally means “beautiful writing.” Calligraphy is the art of producing decorative handwriting with either a pen or a brush.
This skillful form of art requires time as well as effort.
Students are encouraged to take up calligraphy as a creative as well as a fruitful hobby.
Three main types of calligraphy have emerged in modern times. Their names have been mentioned below-
- a) Western
- b) Oriental
- c) Arabic
Now, let us focus on Arabic calligraphy. It is the art of writing the Arabic alphabet artistically. Arabic calligraphy is also known as “khatt” in Arabic. The most important pen used for Arabic calligraphy is known as “qalam.” Calligraphy gives more importance to the visual appearance of the written word than to its meaning.
Thuluth, Kufic, Naskh, and Nasta’liq are a few of the Arabic scripts used for calligraphy. Of them, the appearance of Thuluth is so unique that it for calligraphy of the Quran. Ali Adjalli and Wijdan Ali are some of the contemporary calligraphers.
While using Arabic calligraphy, we need many implements. Some of the necessary tools are Khamish pen, bamboo pen, java pen, and celi pen.
Arabic calligraphy is a form of art. Interestingly, the word “khatt” means “line.” Originally the artistic Arabic calligraphy was a tool for communication. Later on, this form of art also came to be used for decorating coins and architecture.
Muslims gave much priority to Arabic calligraphy as a form of art to show their respect towards the divine. One should keep in mind that Islam as a religion is against idol worship. So, this decorative form of writing is their way of offering reverence and respect.
To conclude, calligraphy is not unique to the Arabic script. However, the fact that the Arabic calligraphy has been used in the Quran shows how important it is to the Islamic culture.