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Art & Books

Saudi Calligraphy Maestro Mesmerizes Festival Audiences with Extraordinary Talents

Renowned Saudi calligraphy Siraj Al-Omari's work has influenced the Kingdom and beyond, captivating audiences across the world with his artistic prowess. Al-Omari fervently inspires the younger Saudi generation to appreciate Arabic calligraphy at the Al-Majaridah Winter Festival in the Asir region through February 22 in an effort to revive enthusiasm for this antiquated art form.

Al-Omari highlights how Arabic calligraphy has a timeless appeal that cuts over language barriers to grip even non-Arabic speakers. He claims that mastery of Arabic calligraphy is attained via committed study rather than depending only on natural aptitude, characterizing this age-old art form as an enthralling play of angles, points, and direction. Notably, this captivating skill extends its influence beyond Saudi Arabia, with Al-Omari providing live online tutorials to enthusiasts in Europe, North Africa, Pakistan, and China.

By NATALIE KEBBE

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Al-Omari reflects on his calligraphy journey, beginning with his brother's return from school sparking his fascination. A turning point came when his brother gifted him a Parker 21 pen, igniting a lifelong passion. The pen remains a cherished artifact, symbolizing his introduction to calligraphy and preserving memories of early inspiration.

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Al-Omari's early dive into calligraphy enhanced his literacy, impressing teachers with pre-grade one character replication on his first school day. He flourished even more in the fourth grade at Saad Ibn Abi Waqqas School, where he was known for being an excellent student and for having beautiful handwriting.

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Surrounded by trees and mountains in the picturesque Al-Namas city in the Asir area, Al-Omari finds inspiration for his creative works in the way colors and forms interact with one another in the natural world. According to him, living amidst such natural beauty prepares individuals for artistic expression and creativity.

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Al-Omari's path to professionalism was guided by Mokhtar Alam, known for his work on the Kaaba's covering. Despite lacking formal calligraphy education, encounters with figures like Alam, Ibrahim Al-Iraqi, and Nasser Al-Maymoun granted him licenses in styles such as Diwani, Farisi, and Jali Diwani.

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Al-Omari freely imparts his calligraphy skills, viewing them as entwined with scholastic and linguistic brilliance. He believes that a commitment to calligraphy sharpens concentration and creative vision, which in turn improves writing and spelling skills. For him, this talent is not a possession but a shared resource for everyone's learning and benefit.

Saudi Calligraphy