A three-month long exhibition at the Sharjah Calligraphy Museum (SCM) highlights the development of Arabic calligraphy and the artistic discipline of Islamic handwriting. 

Titled "Evolution Stages of Arabic Calligraphy", the exhibition focuses on six main Arabic styles of writing, namely Al Kufi, Al Thuluth, Al Naskh, Al Ta’liq, Al Diwani and Al Maghribi, which later inspired calligraphers to create other scripts.

Over 40 artworks by both male and female are on display at SCM from July 18 and until October 18. Their masterpieces shed light on how the Arabic calligraphy transformed from being originally a communication tool and blossomed into an art form boasting various styles. 

Featured works comprise contemporary calligraphers from across the region including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Syria, and other countries who wrote Arabic scripts including verses from the Holy Quran on various materials, such as canvas, parchments and paper.

Manal Ataya, Director General of the Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA), said the exhibition takes visitors on a journey to see how Arabic calligraphy has evolved throughout history.

She added that the exhibition celebrates Sharjah being named 2019 World Book Capital. It also comes as part of SMA’s ongoing efforts to educate visitors about Arab culture and showcase the beauty and creativity of Arabic calligraphy and the importance to preserve it. 

“The exhibition aims to generate more awareness about calligraphy and calligraphers, as an art form that continues to evolve,” Ataya said.