Photo: Unsplash
One simply has to look towards the Museum of the Future to understand how much Dubai appreciates calligraphy. Etched upon the exterior of the innovative building is a quote from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, in Arabic calligraphy.
Joining this distinctive part of the Dubai skyline in its appreciation of the art is the inaugural Dubai Calligraphy Biennale. Recently announced by the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), the event, which will be held on October 1, highlights the importance and diversity of calligraphy as an artistic expression. Most importantly, it presents the inextricable link between Arab heritage and the centuries–old craft.
The Biennale will host over 15 exhibitions at more than 20 venues throughout Dubai, including Dubai Design District, Etihad Museum, Khawla Art Gallery, Expo City Dubai, and DIFC Gate Avenue, among others. This celebration of calligraphy as an art form will involve over 200 artists from both local and international backgrounds, showcasing art pieces in over eight languages, ranging from traditional to contemporary styles.
A variety of other artistic mediums such as product design, public sculptures, textiles, and more will provide a little something beyond the primary focus of the Biennale. Dubai Culture is committed to making the experience educational through around 100 planned sessions and workshops led by renowned artists, calligraphers, and experts.
Fatma Al Qurashi, Dubai Calligharpy Biennale Project Manager, told The National, “The Dubai Calligraphy Biennale will become a global event that enriches Dubai’s creative scene, thanks to the richness of its program and art and design exhibitions, accompanied by various artistic activities and workshops, that contribute to enhancing ways of interacting with this art and its aesthetics, in addition to discovering new talent in calligraphy arts.”
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