Islamic calligraphy or khat, a glorious manifestation of artistic expression, has flourished since the dawn of Islam. It is an art of nuance, encompassing a harmonious combination of letterforms, ink, and paper. It is beyond just writing, demanding a discerning eye for selecting premium materials to create works of enduring value.
More than a form of communication, it is a unique art form demanding meticulous skill and precision. Its unique features, such as flowing lines and intricate patterns, make it a cultural treasure.
“Calligraphy is an integral part of that heritage, and the potential is enormous,” said Dr. Abd Rahman Hamzah, the individual behind Arham Art Gallery (AAG).
“It is more than just writing. It is a conversation between the artist and the divine. Every stroke, every curve, carries a meaning, a story.”
Dr. Abd. Rahman is a highly esteemed senior lecturer at the Academy of Islamic Civilization, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). He possesses a rich academic background, having earned a prestigious PhD in Islamic Calligraphy from the esteemed International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM). Prior to this, he obtained a Diploma from the renowned Khalil Agha Islamic Calligraphy School in Cairo, Egypt, further honing his expertise in the intricate art of Islamic calligraphy. Dr. Rahman's comprehensive education and experience make him a valuable asset to the field of Islamic calligraphy and academia as a whole.
The Establishment of Arham Art Gallery
Arham Art Gallery (AAG), founded in 2018, is a testament to an enduring passion for collecting and showcasing the exquisite beauty of calligraphy. Rooted in the Academic of Islamic Civilization, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), AAG has become a dedicated sanctuary for celebrating this artistic heritage.
The gallery’s name – ‘Arham’, derived from Surah An-Nisa verse 1, emphasizes the significance of familial bonds (ukhuwah), especially among calligraphy artists. Its founder envisioned AAG as a unifying platform, fostering a shared appreciation of calligraphy among enthusiasts in Malaysia.
In line with AAG, he established the Arham Academy to impart knowledge of the Quran and the uniqueness of calligraphy to individuals and communities.
Managing AAG is a demanding endeavour. Dr. Abd. Rahman, supported by his equally passionate wife and calligraphy-proficient daughter, forms the core of the AAG team.
To ensure AAG’s sustainability, he envisions a dual strategy: producing calligraphy-inspired souvenirs and establishing accommodations for academy participants and guests.
Impacting the Community
Dr. Abd. Rahman’s influence extends beyond academia. He serves as the Chairman of the National Calligraphy Association, leading over 200 active members, and concurrently heads the Kulai District Calligraphy Association in Johor.
Renowned for his expertise, he is a sought-after judge for national and international calligraphy competitions and a passionate advocate for the art form. He also shares his knowledge and delivers talks at both AAG and various government agencies.
The Future of Islamic Calligraphy
Dr. Abd. Rahman is optimistic about the future of calligraphy in Malaysia and the Nusantara region, fuelled by the increasing frequency of competitions and growing public interests. He aspires to create a dedicated space for potential calligraphy students to immerse themselves in their craft.
Recognizing the importance of early exposure, he has instilled a love for calligraphy in his children, whose achievements in school and national competitions are a testament to his dedication.
His sons inherited their father's deep passion for Islamic calligraphy. Remarkably, one of them, at the tender age of 14, meticulously transcribed the entire Quran in his own handwriting, exemplifying a remarkable dedication to the art.
As he looks to the future, he is optimistic about the prospects of calligraphy in Malaysia. “There is a growing interest in our cultural heritage,” he says.
He envisions a Malaysia where Islamic calligraphy is taught and displayed in schools, celebrated, and showcased in government offices and public spaces, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of this internationally renowned form of art.
Dr. Abd. Rahman puts a strong emphasis on the pivotal role of government support in elevating the status of Islamic calligraphy. He strongly advocates for the integration of calligraphy into official documents and signage as a means of promoting the heritage and artistic expression of Islamic culture. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of organizing school and university competitions, which have the potential to ignite a lifelong passion for calligraphy art among students, inspiring them to preserve and promote this traditional form of artistic expression for future generations.
The advent of technology offers new avenues for promoting calligraphy, but the preservation of traditional knowledge and skills remains indispensable. His unwavering passion is the driving force to ascend to new heights of prestige, captivating the hearts of the younger generation.
