MBRL celebrates significance of Arabic calligraphy in Dubai

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Library (MBRL) has inaugurated Circles of Light, an exhibition that celebrates the beauty and cultural significance of contemporary Arabic calligraphy.

- Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

Featuring nearly 26 works by renowned artist and calligrapher Tagalsir Hassan, a leading pioneer of Arabic calligraphy, the exhibition will run until Sept.30 at Al Khor Exhibition.

Mohammad Ahmad Al Morr, Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Library Foundation, said, "This exhibition reaffirms the central role of Arabic calligraphy in Arab and Islamic cultural heritage. It reflects our commitment to providing inspiring platforms that celebrate creativity and foster cross-cultural dialogue, while encouraging new generations of artists and calligraphers to explore the beauty and identity inherent in this timeless art form."

The exhibition takes visitors on a visual journey through innovative circular compositions and dynamic geometric forms, including squares, triangles, and open arrangements that convey movement and vitality.

Hassan's works demonstrate a mastery of classical scripts, including Thuluth Jali, Diwani Jali, Naskh, Kufic, and Muhaqqaq, while also presenting contemporary reinterpretations that infuse originality into these traditions. The pieces employ Japanese sumi ink, 23-carat gold, acrylics, and mixed media to achieve striking visual effects.