By MARIAM NIHAL, MARIAM.NIHAL@ARABNEWS.COM

For centuries calligraphy has joined the dots between contemplation, opinions, perception of art and poetry with Islam. A beautiful depiction of the words of Allah is granted a blank canvas where artists with their dreams, intellect and born genius paint them to life.

Arabic script has been an important part of Islam’s cultural heritage for centuries. The spread of Islam during the eighth century had a deep impact on every aspect of people’s life including their perception of art. The desire and effort to reproduce in beautiful and creative characters the Holy Qu’ran’s words eventually generated the new art of Arabic Calligraphy in Muslim societies. The art is particularly popular in Pakistan where artists adopt different calligraphic styles but share the common desire of using their creativity to depict the words of God.

Art aficionados had a chance to attend the Alla’ma bil Qalam Arabic and Qur’anic Calligraphy Exhibition organized by the Consulate General of Pakistan. The four-day exhibition, which finished on Tuesday at Jeddah’s Sheraton Ballroom, was installed in order for Pakistan to showcase its achievements but also in consideration of global interest surrounding the art. The Christian kings of Europe used Arabic inscriptions and calligraphic designs to decorate their palaces, furniture and coins, the exhibition’s official website explains. Even today the art has found its place in societies across the world. Its treasures are housed in Western and Islamic museums.

READ MORE ON ARABNEWS
http://arabnews.com/lifestyle/art_culture/article511968.ece