The 61st issue of Arabic Letters magazine, published by the Culture and Science Forum in Dubai, brings a diverse and rich selection of artistic and cultural topics. The issue opens with a note from editor-in-chief Ali Obaid Al Hamli, in which he reflects on his visit to northern India and his focus on the phenomenon of Arabic calligraphy — its ornamentation, engravings, aesthetics, and styles — as found in mosques, palaces, and towering gateways at the Taj Mahal and other sites across India.
This is followed by a singular and in-depth study by French calligrapher and artist Hassan Al Masoud, of Iraqi origin, who sheds light on "sculptural calligraphy" and traces the journey of the Arabic letter and the evolution of writing.
The issue also features a rich interview with Egyptian calligrapher Issam Abdel Fattah and his talented student Ashraf Hassan, conducted by Mohammed Firas Abbo and Shaker Nouri. Abdel Fattah is regarded as a towering figure and an authoritative reference in Fatimid Kufic calligraphy, and the legitimate heir to the aesthetics of the distinguished Egyptian school.
Taking centre stage in the issue's main feature is an engaging conversation conducted by Emirati calligrapher Khaled Al Jalaf with Turkish artist and calligrapher Farhad Kurlu — imam and preacher at one of Istanbul's mosques — who represents the third or fourth generation of the lineage of the two great masters Hamid Al Amidi and Hassan Celebi. He is known for his prominent contributions to adorning Istanbul's mosques with his exquisite calligraphy, as well as his dedicated efforts to teaching Arabic calligraphy to new generations.
The magazine also commemorates the career of calligrapher Awni Al Naqqash. On the critical review front, calligrapher Taj Al Sir Hassan presents two comprehensive readings.
In the "Book Introduction" section, His Excellency Mohammed Ahmed Al Murr, Chairman of the Board of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Library Foundation, offers a thorough review of the book The Journey of Writing and Calligraphy.