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The 12th edition of the Sharjah Calligraphy Forum will launch in October under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. Organized by the Cultural Affairs Department at the Sharjah Department of Culture, the event will run for two months and feature local, Arab, and international participation in celebrating Arabic calligraphy as a traditional art form.
The organizing committee for the Sharjah Calligraphy Forum announced “Mizan” (Balance) as the theme for the upcoming edition during a meeting held at the department’s headquarters. The session was chaired by Mohammed Ibrahim Al Qaseer, Director of Cultural Affairs and Forum Director, alongside committee members who outlined the event’s strategic direction.
Understanding the Mizan Theme in Arabic Calligraphy
According to Al Qaseer, the forum continues its expansion toward global recognition, supported by the sustained patronage and artistic vision of the Ruler of Sharjah. The 12th edition arrives with a renewed focus to affirm Sharjah’s pioneering role in preserving Arabic calligraphy as an authentic Arab art form with significant historical and Islamic importance.
The “Mizan” theme carries profound artistic significance that embodies the core principles of Arabic calligraphy based on order and precision. Al Qaseer explained that this concept provides calligraphers with an expansive vision for creativity in executing calligraphic works while maintaining traditional standards.
Technical Significance of Balance in Calligraphy
The concept of balance manifests in multiple dimensions within Arabic calligraphy, the director noted. It appears in the unit of measurement known as “the dot” which regulates letter proportions, ensuring consistency across different scripts and styles.
Additionally, balance is achieved through the delicate equilibrium between mass and space, which gives each composition its visual rhythm. This interplay between filled and empty areas creates the aesthetic appeal that distinguishes masterful calligraphic works from ordinary writing.
Furthermore, the harmony between calligraphy and ornamentation represents another dimension of Mizan, according to the announcement. This integration achieves a complete artistic unity where no single element overpowers another, reflecting the philosophical underpinnings of Islamic art traditions.
Participation Details for the Sharjah Calligraphy Forum
On the organizational front, the committee will begin sending invitations to calligraphers and artists worldwide during the current month. The call for participation will be announced through the official website and social media platforms, opening opportunities for global engagement.
However, interested participants must meet specific deadlines to ensure proper evaluation and selection. The committee has set the end of May as the final deadline for receiving electronic application forms and proposed artworks, according to the official statement.
Global Reach and Cultural Impact
The Sharjah Calligraphy Forum has established itself as a significant platform for preserving and promoting Arabic calligraphy on the international stage. By attracting participants from diverse geographical regions, the event facilitates cultural exchange and knowledge sharing among practitioners of this traditional art form.
Meanwhile, the two-month duration allows for comprehensive programming including workshops, exhibitions, competitions, and educational sessions. This extended timeframe enables deeper engagement with both practitioners and audiences interested in understanding the intricacies of Arabic script.
In contrast to shorter cultural events, the forum’s extended schedule provides sufficient opportunity for meaningful dialogue between master calligraphers and emerging artists. The event serves as both a celebration of heritage and a platform for contemporary innovation within traditional frameworks.
The organizing committee is expected to announce detailed programming schedules and participant lists following the May deadline for submissions. Authorities have not yet confirmed specific venue locations or the complete roster of master calligraphers who will lead educational sessions during the October launch.
