Arab artists: Wissam captivated by calligraphy

Iraqi artist Wissam Shawkat, inspired by his childhood calligraphy instructor, who wrote in Riqa style on a crumbling blackboard, developed an intrinsic passion for calligraphy at an early age and remains captivated by its magic. A calligrapher and designer with more than 20 years of experience, Shawkat believes that:

“Calligraphists should have a solid understanding of the history of art in order to hone their skills and engage in graphics’ realm.”

Shawkat graduated from Al Basra University in 1996 with a degree in civil engineering, working as a civil engineer for a month following his graduation. However, before long, Shawkat’s passion for calligraphy prevailed, and he pursued his dream to produce some magnificent pieces of art inspired by the mystical dynamism of Arabic calligraphy.

Shawkat does not advocate drastically changing or evolving Arabic calligraphy, as he fears it would erode its classical features and explains that:

“Calligraphy painting is not merely a written piece of art. It is about creating an image.”

To read more and view Wissam Shawkat’s art please follow the link:
http://enawafeth.alarabiya.net/content/haunted-passion-calligraphy