RAWALPINDI: A 10-day exhibit of calligraphies by renowned artist Azeem Iqbal started at the Rawalpindi Arts Council (RAC) on Thursday.

Punjab Minister for Information and Culture Fayyazul Hassan Chohan was the chief guest at the event, which was attended by a large number of people from the twin cities.

The exhibition includes 50 pieces of calligraphy on leather, wood, copper and precious stones.

Azeem’s works include floral and geometric patterns in the oriental tradition and collage is used to complete panels.

Talking to Dawn, Azeem Iqbal said he has been doing calligraphies for 10 years and that he experimented with other art before deciding on calligraphy.

He said he did not get a formal education in calligraphy and started with writing the names of Allah when he was in the ninth grade.

“This was my mother’s wish and I received basic training from various artists who taught me to write the names of Allah on leather and stone. I have done calligraphy with gemstone powder on paper, as done by artists before,” he said.

“For a very long time, verses of the Quran have been written on different mediums. Calligraphists of the time used many styles to transcribe the manuscript of the Quran. Since them, this particular art has associated itself with spirituality and is the most popular form of design art in the Muslim world,” he said.

He added that he started calligraphy in the old and traditional pattern, using leather, wood and other natural mediums as was done in the past. He has also used gold and silver water to make the pieces more vibrant.

It took him more than a month to complete one piece, he said, adding that he wants to continue to art of calligraphy so the new generation can also enjoy it.

Mr Chohan said calligraphy is a beautiful form of art tied with Islamic scripture and that the art of writing in calligraphy with the same tools available when the Quran was written centuries ago is a unique skill.

RAC Director Waqar Ahmed shed light on the history and importance of calligraphy with special reference to Azeem Iqbal’s work.

He said Mr Iqbal has gained a respectable position in a short period of time.

He said Azeem’s work shows the grip he has on his subject.

He said RAC provides a platform to old and new artists to present their work.

The exhibition will continue till Dec 2.

Published in Dawn, November 23rd, 2018