Indian calligraphy artist enthralls art lovers

Calligraphy, which is the artistic practice of handwriting Arabic script, is revered due to its primary use as a means of preserving the Qur’an.
Jeddah residents were given the opportunity to appreciate the enthralling Islamic calligraphy exhibition of Indian artist Shamim Qureshi on Wednesday at the premises of the Indian Consulate General in Jeddah.
Faiz Ahmed Kidwai, the Indian consul general inaugurated Qureshi’s 30 artistic pieces in the presence of diplomats, dignitaries, Indian expatriates, Saudi nationals and art lovers.
Welcoming the visitors, Kidwai relayed the importance of Islamic calligraphy and the historic context in which this art form took precedence in India.
“India has a long tradition of Arabic calligraphy which was transferred by the Muslim rulers of India. Unfortunately many people remain unaware of our rich cultural association with this form of art, which is why this exhibition is so important in raising awareness of Indian calligraphy artists,” said the consul general.
Introducing the talented artist, Kidwai said, “Qureshi has great experience in Islamic calligraphy and as a testament of her talent, some of her art work will be displayed in a museum in Belgium. Her style is unique and distinct, when compared to other calligraphy artists. We are proud and delighted to have the honor of exhibiting her work here.”
The Indian consulate had previously organized a lecture on Islamic calligraphy, presented by professor Shafiq Ahmed Khan Nadwi, former head of the Arabic department at the Jamia Milat Islamia in New Delhi.
Qureshi’s work has been showcased in many exhibitions across India and in one international exhibition in Iran. The Bombay artist has a passion for emboss work on poetry and clay and has received much acclaim for her style.
Commenting on the artist’s work, Safeya Binzagr, owner and founder of Darat Safeya Binzagr Gallery admired Qureshi’s technique, especially her choice of cement as the medium for her creations.