5-Day Calligraphy Exhibition Opens in Herat, Afghanistan

HERAT, Afghanistan – This week, the city of Herat is hosting a captivating five-day calligraphy exhibition, drawing local art enthusiasts, students, historians, and visitors alike. Organized by the Calligraphers Association of Herat, the exhibition, themed “Hadith-e-Dost” (Friendship of Hadith), celebrates the rich heritage of Islamic calligraphy. The event aims to preserve and promote this ancient art form, deeply rooted in Islamic culture, through stunning works created by skilled calligraphers from across Herat and beyond.

This exhibition comes at a time when Afghanistan’s cultural identity is as resilient as ever, enduring and evolving despite years of social and political upheaval. In the opening ceremony, Mawlavi Hayatullah Muhajer Farahi, the Deputy Minister for Publication Information and Culture, alongside Herat’s Deputy Governor, highlighted the government’s commitment to safeguarding and revitalizing Islamic arts across the country. “Preserving these noble arts is more than just maintaining tradition—it’s about keeping the spirit of Islamic heritage alive for generations to come,” Farahi emphasized, underscoring the cultural importance of this exhibition.

Art of Calligraphy in Afghanistan

Islamic calligraphy holds a revered place in Afghan culture and history, seen as both a form of artistic expression and a profound spiritual practice. Throughout centuries, calligraphy has served as a medium for recording sacred texts, connecting the written word with divine devotion. Jalil Ahmad Tawana, the head of the Calligraphers Association of Herat, expressed the exhibition’s goal to sustain the legacy of Islamic calligraphy and inspire a new generation of Afghan artists. “Our purpose is not only to keep the art of calligraphy alive but also to honor the dedication of our local calligraphers, who have devoted their lives to this beautiful art form,” Tawana said.

Beyond its artistic and religious significance, calligraphy has cultural importance in Afghanistan as a bridge to the past and a means of documenting the present. For Afghan calligraphers, maintaining this tradition is an act of resilience. Over time, these artists have preserved and practiced this meticulous craft, using traditional tools like reed pens and natural inks to achieve the intricate curves and lines that define Islamic calligraphy. Many of the artists featured in the exhibition studied under experienced masters, and they hope to inspire the next generation of Afghan youth to embrace this unique art form.

The exhibition boasts an impressive 49 pieces representing different calligraphic styles, each with historical significance and regional influence. Among these are Nastaliq, Shakasta Nastaliq, and early Kufic script, providing an exploration of the evolution of Islamic calligraphy.

Nastaliq, renowned for its graceful, fluid script, has particular prominence in Persian and Afghan culture. This style is often associated with poetry, given its aesthetic elegance and ability to convey the rhythm and flow of poetic verses. Nastaliq’s origins can be traced back to the 14th century in Persia, and it has since become the favored style for Persian-language manuscripts.

Shakasta Nastaliq, also known as “broken Nastaliq,” offers a variation with more curves and expressive forms, appealing to artists who value a free-flowing, almost spontaneous visual structure. Shakasta Nastaliq was historically popular in Iran and Central Asia and remains appreciated for its complexity and artistry.

Kufic script, one of the oldest forms of Arabic calligraphy, is notable for its blocky, angular shapes, which lend a distinctive geometric quality. It is commonly seen in early Islamic manuscripts, coins, and architectural inscriptions. The presence of Kufic script in this exhibition reflects a connection to Islamic history, evoking the early days of the Quran’s transcription and the birth of Islamic art.

Each piece on display is a testament to the unique artistry and dedication of its creator. These calligraphic styles offer visitors a journey through time, highlighting the stylistic and cultural richness of Islamic calligraphy and its role in shaping the visual language of Islamic civilization. 

Calligraphy Heritage in Afghanistan

Islamic calligraphy has flourished in Afghanistan for centuries, particularly in Herat, which has long been a center for art and culture. During the Timurid dynasty in the 15th century, Herat emerged as one of the most significant cultural hubs in the Islamic world. This era, often referred to as the Timurid Renaissance, saw a blossoming of Persian art, literature, and architecture, with calligraphy at the forefront. It was during this period that calligraphy became an esteemed art form, integrated into manuscripts, architectural decoration, and even textiles.

Today, Herat’s calligraphers carry forward this legacy, contributing to a rich heritage that connects them to a profound historical past. The exhibition in Herat serves as both a celebration and a reminder of this heritage, inviting Afghan youth to reconnect with their cultural roots. Despite years of conflict, Afghan artists have remained steadfast, finding ways to sustain their craft and share it with the world.

“Herat’s rich history in calligraphy is unmatched, and this exhibition is a testament to that legacy,” said Farahi. For the people of Herat, calligraphy is more than an art form; it’s an enduring symbol of resilience, faith, and creativity in the face of adversity.

Islamic calligraphy is more than a visual art; it is a deeply spiritual practice that often conveys Quranic verses, Hadith (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad), and other religious texts. Unlike Western art, where the focus is typically on the artist’s self-expression, Islamic calligraphy emphasizes the words and their meaning. This reflects a broader cultural belief that beauty should be found in the divine, and that the written word is a powerful connection to God.

In Islamic tradition, writing is regarded as a sacred gift, and calligraphy elevates this gift to a form of art. The careful composition and flowing script seen in Islamic calligraphy pieces are intended to reflect the beauty of the divine word. For calligraphers, the act of writing is often seen as an act of devotion, a way of meditating on God’s words. This exhibition in Herat showcases verses from the Quran, the Hadith, and other expressions of spirituality, with each piece reflecting the artist’s dedication and reverence for the text.

Highlights of the Exhibition

Among the talented artists featured in the exhibition, several notable Afghan calligraphers have gained recognition for their unique contributions to styles like Nastaliq and Kufic. Each piece reflects months, and in some cases years, of meticulous craftsmanship, with each line and curve bearing the unique touch of its creator.

Some of the featured artists have gained acclaim for their modern interpretations of traditional calligraphy. These innovative approaches allow calligraphy to evolve while honoring its classical roots, keeping the art form relevant and accessible to new audiences. With the increasing global appreciation for Islamic art, these Afghan calligraphers hope to showcase their work to broader audiences and introduce the beauty of their craft to art lovers around the world.

The Calligraphy Exhibition is not only an artistic event but also an opportunity to revive cultural interest among Afghan youth. By creating a platform for young artists to engage with traditional art forms, the Calligraphers Association of Herat hopes to inspire the younger generation to explore and carry forward this valuable cultural heritage.

Schools in Herat and surrounding areas have been invited to bring students to the exhibition, encouraging an early appreciation for Islamic art. “Art has a way of connecting people to their roots,” said Tawana. “We hope that events like these will remind young people of the beauty and importance of our culture, especially during challenging times.”

The exhibition also underscores the importance of education in preserving cultural traditions. For aspiring calligraphers, learning calligraphy exhibition is not only a means of artistic expression but also a way to build a deeper connection with their history and faith. The Calligraphers Association of Herat has plans to establish training programs and workshops to help young artists develop their skills, ensuring that Afghanistan’s calligraphy heritage continues to flourish.

Related: Sultan bin Ahmed Opens 11th Sharjah Calligraphy Forum

Islamic Arts Preservation in Afghanistan

Afghanistan has a rich history of art and culture, but preserving these traditions has been challenging due to political instability and conflict. For decades, Afghanistan’s cultural heritage has been at risk, with many historic sites and artifacts damaged or destroyed. However, the Afghan government, along with local organizations like the Calligraphers Association of Herat, is determined to protect and promote Islamic arts.

The Deputy Minister for Publication Information and Culture highlighted the government’s dedication to preserving arts and culture, particularly those rooted in Islamic traditions. “Our ministry is focused on safeguarding noble arts, and calligraphy is one of the most esteemed of these. It’s essential to hold onto this heritage, not only as part of our history but as a vital component of our identity,” stated Farahi.

Despite the challenges, local artists remain resilient, and events like this calligraphy exhibition reflect a commitment to cultural preservation. The exhibition not only serves as a celebration of Afghanistan’s artistic heritage but also as a beacon of hope for a future where Afghan arts can flourish and thrive.

Islamic calligraphy has garnered increasing global interest, with exhibitions in major cities like London, New York, and Dubai attracting diverse audiences. As appreciation for Islamic art grows across borders, Afghan calligraphers are eager to showcase their work on an international stage. Events like the Herat exhibition put Afghanistan on the cultural map, inviting art lovers worldwide to explore the country’s contributions to Islamic art.

In recent years, demand for Islamic calligraphy has also risen online, with digital calligraphy finding its way into design, fashion, and even technology. With social media serving as a platform for artists to share their work, Afghan calligraphers are exploring ways to expand their reach, building cross-cultural connections through a shared appreciation for Islamic art. The digital realm provides a unique opportunity for these artists to connect with global audiences, bringing Afghanistan’s calligraphy tradition into the modern era.

Calligraphy in Afghanistan

Looking ahead, there is hope that Afghanistan’s calligraphy tradition will continue to thrive. The Calligraphers Association of Herat is working to establish training programs for young artists, ensuring that the skills and knowledge needed for calligraphy are passed down through generations. Plans to digitize artworks are also underway, which would allow these pieces to be archived, studied, and shared beyond Afghanistan’s borders.

Tawana and other calligraphers are optimistic that the art of calligraphy will not only survive but flourish. “We are committed to nurturing the talents of our youth, offering them both mentorship and inspiration,” said Tawana. “Afghanistan’s artistic heritage is its soul, and as long as we have art, we have hope.”

The Calligraphy Exhibition in Herat is more than an art show; it is a celebration of Afghan heritage, resilience, and creativity. As visitors wander through the exhibition, each piece tells a story of faith, tradition, and devotion. Amidst Afghanistan’s challenges, events like this demonstrate the enduring power of culture to unite, inspire, and uplift.

With growing interest in Islamic art, Afghan calligraphers are motivated to share their craft and expand their influence. This five-day event is not only an opportunity for local artists to shine but also a step toward integrating Afghanistan’s rich artistic legacy into the broader narrative of Islamic and global art.