Impressions of Calligraphy

KALAM, in Arabic means a type of mark making tool, composed of dried reed used for writing Islamic calligraphy. In the modern Islamic languages, it simply means “pen”. Islamic calligraphy, or ornamental writing, has emerged in the Malaysian art setting for some time, and has nestled itself comfortably in many homes and museums’ collections. Contemporary Muslim artists in Malaysia have taken a step further by combining indigenous culture (Silat and witchdoctors), nature and modern dialogue into their work. Verses from the Quran and Arabic characters depicting Malay poetry are fused with geometric design, arabesque and the sense of mystery derived from Nusantara myths and local folklore. Sufism, which is the introverted and mystical dimension of Islam, serves as an artistic and pious rubric for artists involved in the calligraphy practice. They believe by indulging, writing and memorizing verses form the Quran, their soul will be lifted and brings them closer to Allah.

In the spirit of Ramadan, Galeri Chandan will host a group exhibition organized to pay tribute to Mohammad Din Mohammad, an artist who recently passed-away and had steadfastly dedicated his life to modern Islamic calligraphy and regional art and Ahmad Khalid Yusof, a modern calligrapher. Their brightly colored canvases will be displayed among diverse Islamic calligraphy-influenced works by fellow artistic comrades such as Ahmad Zakii, Yusof Ghani and practicing contemporary calligraphers that are posthumously acquainted with Din, Shukor Yahya and Husin Hourmain.

Mohammad Din Mohammad, born in Malacca, on the 24th of May, 1955 – 2007 is a Singapore-based artist who was also a one-time theater performer, Silat guru and a practitioner of alternative medicine and spiritual healing.MORE >