Sharjah Calligraphy Biennial to honour three innovators

The 11th edition of the Sharjah Calligraphy Biennial is set to take place on October 2, organised by the Sharjah Department of Culture under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi.

This year’s biennial will honour three prominent figures in Arabic calligraphy: Emirati calligrapher Khalid Ali Al Jalaf, Iraqi researcher Idham Khalid Hanish, and Spanish historian of Islamic and Andalusian art, José Miguel Poyatos. 

Their works will be featured in solo exhibitions at the Calligraphy Square in Sharjah, open to the public throughout the event.

Director of the Cultural Affairs Department, Mohammed Ibrahim Al Qaseer, emphasised the significance of celebrating calligraphy as a universal art form. He noted that this aligns with the Ruler of Sharjah's directives and the biennial’s mission to recognise innovators in this eloquent discipline.
The biennial will showcase a diverse array of exhibitions, including original works from international artists and contemporary pieces reflecting Emirati calligraphers' love for their homeland. 

Notably, it will also revive forgotten scripts, with solo exhibitions by Turkish artist Davut Bektas and Iranian artist Sadegh Shafiee, titled "Golden Letters" and "Notations on the Pen," respectively.

The event promises to be a rich cultural experience, celebrating the artistry and tradition of calligraphy while fostering appreciation for this timeless craft.