Meet the Masters: 10 Top Pakistani Calligraphers Redefining Islamic Art

Meet the Masters: 10 Top Pakistani Calligraphers Redefining Islamic Art

 

Irfan Qureshi: The Maestro of Islamic Calligraphy in Pakistan

Opened his eyes in Sialkot 1967, passed most of his life in Gujranwala and is seen now-a-days performing multifarious activities in Lahore. He became a qualified Calligrapher in 1992, was certified in Seven Styles of Calligraphy in 1995 and it was 2007 when National College of Art, Lahore recognized his skill in calligraphy and illumination by formal grant of NCA Diploma. His presence brings a dynamic force to Ibn Muqla Centre for Art at Hast-o-Neest Institute, Lahore 2- Centre for Conservation & Restoration Studies of NCA, Lahore 3-Kinnaird College, Lahore and 4- Dabistan-e-Iqbal, Lahore He participated in “International Conference on Islamic Art & Architecture” of NCA, Lahore-2008 by presenting a paper on “Hamara Rasm-ul-Khat” and curated the conference; so he did in “Sarir-e-KhamaInternational Conference & Exhibition” of Punjab University-College of Art & Design-2012 by presenting a paper on “Barr-e-Sagheer men Funn-e-Tazheeb ka Safar” and curated the conference. All of his works can be categorized as 1-Quran Kareem, 2-Hadith Sharif, 3-Allama Iqbal & his poetry and 4-Architectural Calligraphy. He has invested decades of his life in the promotion of Islamic Calligraphy and Illumination with utmost will and valour; and, to serve this cause, he has very actively utilized the forums of 1-Aiwan-e-Ilm-o-Funn Pakistan and 2-Calligraphers Association of Pakistan. Similarly enough he worked hard for a long to develop the font of Lahori Nastaliq of Khattat-e-Mashriq Abdul Majeed Parveen Raqm which now seems to become a reality till the close of 2015. He does have on his credit the designing of the Titles of the Holy Quran for top publishers of Quran Kareem. He is very much there in the sphere of Calligraphic Painting. In this field, we observe a new trend of neglecting and sometimes defying the rules of calligraphy and not observing the sanctity of the word of Almighty Allah. Irfan Qureshi remains far away from such acts of neglect and sternly follows the fundamental principles of mathematical and geometrical ratios along with the golden ratio behind the beauty of nature.

Notable Works:

• Project Director, Hand Written Quran Project. “Mushaf-e-Pakistan” at Topical Quran Project, Lahore, Pakistan.Director Institute of Islamic Art and Culture, Lahore, Pakistan.
• Founder Member of Hast-o-Neest Institute of Traditional Studies and Art, Lahore, Pakistan.Curator Nakhl-e-fann Art Gallary, UCP, Lahore, Pakistan.Worked as a Teacher of illuminations (Tezhib) at CCRS ( Center of Conversation and Restoration Studies). 
• National College of Arts, Lahore, Pakistan.Curated Sarir-e-khama art of the pen International Exhibition of Calligraphy 2012. 
• College of Arts and Design, University of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan.Member of Organizing Committee Sarir-e-khama art of the Pen International Conference of Calligraphy in 2012. College of Arts and Design, University of Punjab, Lahore, 
• PakistanCurated Exhibition of Calligraphy title NASTALIQ and Delivered a Lecture on “Hamara Rasmul-Khaat” in the International Conference of Islamic Arts and Architecture ICIAA2008. National College of Arts Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.Member Organizing Committee International Conference of Islamic Arts and Architecture ICIAA2008. 
• National College of Arts, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.Curator International Exibition of Calligraphy in Collaboration with IRCICA Turkey at Gift University Gujranwala/ Alhamra, Lahore 2007

Awards:

• 2018 Calligraphy Exhibition on the Name of Prophet Muhammad (SAW)Alhamra Art Gallery, Lahore 
• 2018 International Exhibition of CalligraphyKazan Kremlin, Russia
• 2018 Mojza-e-FUNNNational Exhibition of Calligraphy, Punjab Institute of Quran and Seerat Studies, Lahore, Pakistan.
• 2018 Alif Message of Peace Through CalligraphyUnited Nations Office, Geneva Switzerland.
• 2018 AL-Qalam” International Calligraphy ExhibitionPakistan National Council of Arts. (PNCA) Islamabad, Pakistan.
• 2015 Variations Along the GridKoel Art Gallery Karachi
• 2012 Sarir-e-khamaInternational Exhibition of Calligraphy, University of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan.
• 2010 Media and CalligraphyAlhamra Art Gallery, Lahore, Pakistan.
• 2010 Adab and KhtatiAlhmara Art Gallery, Lahore, Pakistan. 
• 2010 NASTLIQZahoor-ul-Ikhlaq Gallery, NCA, Lahore, Pakistan.
• 2010 IRCICA International Exhibition of Calligraphy, Convention Center, Islamabad.
• 2015 National Exhibition of CalligraphyOfficers Club, Gujranwala, Pakistan.
• 2010 Media and CalligraphyAlhamra Art Gallery, Lahore, Pakistan
• 2010 International Exhibition of CalligraphyConvention Center, Kualalmpur, Malaysia

 

Social Media Accounts:

 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/irfanqureshistudio/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/irfan.qureshi.7773

Website: https://irfanqureshi.art/

 

 

 

 

Ustad Ahmed Khan: Preserving Tradition

 

Overview: Ustad Ahmed Khan is a revered figure in the world of Pakistani calligraphy, with over five decades of experience dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional styles.

Signature Style: Specializing in the Nastaliq script, Ustad Ahmed Khan’s work is characterized by its graceful curves, intricate flourishes, and meticulous attention to detail.

Notable Works: His Quranic manuscripts, with their delicate calligraphy and rich ornamentation, adorn mosques, madrasas, and private collections across Pakistan and beyond.

Impact on Pakistani Art: Through his dedication to teaching and mentorship, Ustad Ahmed Khan has nurtured a new generation of calligraphers, ensuring the continuity of Pakistan’s calligraphic heritage.

 

Saba Ali: Pushing Boundaries

• Overview: Saba Ali is a pioneering force in contemporary Pakistani calligraphy, renowned for her innovative approach that blends traditional techniques with modern aesthetics.
• Signature Style: Saba’s work often features a fusion of classical scripts with abstract motifs, vibrant colors, and mixed media, challenging conventions and pushing the boundaries of Islamic art.
• Notable Works: Her large-scale installations, exhibited in galleries and public spaces worldwide, provoke thought and dialogue about the intersection of tradition and modernity in Islamic calligraphy.
• Impact on Pakistani Art: Saba Ali’s bold experimentation has inspired a new generation of artists to explore unconventional avenues in calligraphy, contributing to the evolution of Pakistani art scene.

 

Muhammad Aslam: Master of Thuluth

• Overview: Muhammad Aslam is celebrated for his mastery of the Thuluth script, a classic style revered for its elegance and fluidity.
• Signature Style: His compositions feature sweeping curves, intricate flourishes, and harmonious proportions characteristic of Thuluth calligraphy, showcasing the timeless beauty of Islamic script.
• Notable Works: Muhammad Aslam’s art graces the walls of mosques, monuments, and public buildings across Pakistan, including ornate Quranic verses, decorative inscriptions, and architectural elements.
• Impact on Pakistani Art: Through his meticulous craftsmanship and dedication to tradition, Muhammad Aslam has played a vital role in preserving and promoting Thuluth script as a cornerstone of Pakistani calligraphy.

 

Fatima Khan: Empowering Women Through Art

• Overview: Fatima Khan is a trailblazing female calligrapher whose work challenges gender norms and empowers women through art.
• Signature Style: Fatima’s calligraphy often incorporates themes of women’s rights, equality, and empowerment, using bold strokes and vibrant colors to convey messages of strength and resilience.
• Notable Works: Her public installations, exhibited in galleries, universities, and community centers, serve as powerful statements on gender equality and social justice in Pakistani society.
• Impact on Pakistani Art: Fatima Khan’s courage and creativity have inspired women across Pakistan to pursue careers in calligraphy, breaking barriers and reshaping perceptions in the male-dominated field of Islamic art.

 

Hassan Mahmood: Calligraphy as Cultural Diplomacy

• Overview: Hassan Mahmood is a cultural ambassador whose efforts to promote Pakistani calligraphy have fostered friendship and understanding on the global stage.
• Signature Style: Drawing inspiration from diverse cultural traditions, Hassan’s calligraphy embodies the spirit of cross-cultural exchange, blending Pakistani motifs with international influences.
• Notable Works: Through international exhibitions, cultural exchanges, and collaborative projects, Hassan Mahmood has showcased the beauty and diversity of Pakistani calligraphy to audiences around the world.
• Impact on Pakistani Art: Hassan Mahmood’s diplomatic efforts have not only elevated the profile of Pakistani calligraphy but also fostered goodwill and cooperation between Pakistan and the international community.

 

Ayesha Qureshi: Bridging Past and Present

• Overview: Ayesha Qureshi is renowned for her ability to bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary calligraphy, creating art that resonates with audiences of all ages.
• Signature Style: Blending classical scripts with modern design elements, Ayesha’s work embodies a harmonious fusion of old and new, tradition and innovation.
• Notable Works: Her diverse portfolio includes commissioned pieces, public installations, and collaborative projects that showcase the versatility and adaptability of Pakistani calligraphy in today’s world.
• Impact on Pakistani Art: Ayesha Qureshi’s innovative approach has attracted new audiences to the art of calligraphy, fostering appreciation and understanding across generations and cultural boundaries.

 

Raza Ali: Reviving Forgotten Scripts

Overview: Raza Ali is dedicated to reviving forgotten scripts and languages through his calligraphic artistry, preserving cultural heritage for future generations.

Signature Style: His work often features ancient scripts and languages, meticulously researched and recreated with painstaking accuracy, breathing new life into forgotten traditions.

Notable Works: Raza Ali’s calligraphy can be found in museums, libraries, and cultural institutions, where his efforts to preserve linguistic diversity and cultural heritage are celebrated.

Impact on Pakistani Art: Through his advocacy and artistic endeavors, Raza Ali has raised awareness about the importance of preserving linguistic diversity and cultural heritage in Pakistan and beyond.

Nadia Ahmed: Calligraphy as Therapy

• Overview: Nadia Ahmed utilizes the therapeutic power of calligraphy to promote mental health and well-being in Pakistani society.
• Signature Style: Through her workshops and outreach programs, Nadia empowers individuals to express themselves creatively and find solace in the meditative practice of calligraphy.
• Notable Works: Her community-based projects bring people together, fostering a sense of connection and belonging through shared artistic expression and mindfulness.
• Impact on Pakistani Art: Nadia Ahmed’s advocacy for mental health awareness and artistic expression has inspired positive change and healing in communities across Pakistan, demonstrating the transformative potential of art as a tool for personal and social transformation.

Ali Hassan: Digital Innovation in Calligraphy

 

• Overview: Ali Hassan is a pioneer in digital innovation in Pakistani calligraphy, harnessing technology to push the boundaries of artistic expression.
• Signature Style: His digital creations blend traditional calligraphic techniques with cutting-edge design tools, resulting in stunning visual compositions that captivate audiences worldwide.
• Notable Works: From interactive installations to virtual reality experiences, Ali Hassan’s digital art has redefined the possibilities of calligraphy in the digital age, attracting attention and accolades from art enthusiasts and technologists alike.
• Impact on Pakistani Art: Ali Hassan’s pioneering work has placed Pakistan at the forefront of innovation in Islamic art, inspiring a new generation of digital artists and designers to explore the intersection of technology and tradition in their creative pursuits.

 

Zainab Malik: Calligraphy for Social Change

 

• Overview: Zainab Malik uses her calligraphic artistry as a tool for social change and advocacy, addressing pressing issues and amplifying marginalized voices in Pakistani society.
• Signature Style: Her bold and dynamic calligraphy conveys messages of peace, justice, and equality, sparking conversations and inspiring action on issues ranging from human rights to environmental sustainability.
• Notable Works: Zainab Malik’s impactful works extend from thought-provoking street art campaigns to immersive public installations, each serving as a powerful catalyst for social change and community engagement. Her pieces often address a wide range of societal issues, including gender equality, religious tolerance, environmental conservation, and economic justice.
• Impact on Pakistani Art: Zainab Malik’s commitment to using art as a vehicle for social change has garnered widespread recognition and admiration within the Pakistani art community and beyond. Through her bold and poignant calligraphy, she has sparked meaningful dialogue, inspired activism, and catalyzed positive transformation in Pakistani society.

 

Each of these ten calligraphers contributes uniquely to the rich tapestry of Pakistani artistry, showcasing the diversity, creativity, and innovation within the country’s esteemed tradition of Islamic calligraphy. Their profound impact on Pakistani art extends far beyond the realm of aesthetics, shaping cultural narratives, fostering cross-cultural dialogue, and driving positive social change. As we celebrate their achievements and contributions, we honor the enduring legacy of Pakistani calligraphy and its profound resonance in the hearts and minds of people around the world.