Love, Scent of Life 1, 2011

Wissam Shawkat
Love, Scent of Life 1, 2011
Soot ink and acrylic colours on handmade paper
66 x 95.5 cm
Installation view
Photo by Jamaluddin Shanvnas

Artist Statement

I have always believed that calligraphy can have a dynamic effect on the way we see and understand the world. Words are essential tools of communication, but in a rapidly evolving world, the forms in which these words are rendered must reflect our time and place. I think that tradition is to be highly respected, but not imitated: we should build upon these foundations freely.

Although my work can be described as a departure from classical Islamic calligraphy, I have never lost sight of the many years of evolution that has shaped every Arabic letter into remarkable beauty. In my recent works, the viewer can clearly detect classical scripts such as Thuluth, Kufic and Diwani, yet in new forms and compositions that reflect the vibrancy of contemporary culture.


2013

This project was part of Sharjah Biennial 11

Artwork Images

Basmala

Wissam Shawkat
2012

Ink and acrylic colours on handmade paper
100 x 33 cm
Installation view
Photo by Jamaluddin Shanavas

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Basmala Image

Maxim Saying 'If a man does not know to what port he is steering, no wind is favourable to him.' - Seneca - Roman dramatist, philosopher, & politician (5 BC - 65 AD)

Wissam Shawkat
2009

Ink and acrylic colours on handmade paper
64 x 50 cm
Photo by Jamaluddin Shavanas

Maxim Saying 'If a man does not know to what port he is steering, no wind is favourable to him.' - Seneca - Roman dramatist, philosopher, & politician (5 BC - 65 AD) Image

Love 2

Wissam Shawkat
2011

Soot ink and acrylic colours on paper
48 x 94 cm
Image courtesy of the Artist

Love 2 Image

10 Calligraphic Works

Wissam Shawkat
2010

Soot ink and acrylic colours on paper
Dimension variable
Installation view
Photo by Jamaluddin Shavanas

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10 Calligraphic Works Image

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