Syrian Talent Shines at the 12th Sharjah Calligraphy Biennial
Syrian artists and cultural experts have made a prominent impact at the 12th Sharjah Calligraphy Biennial, currently taking place in the United Arab Emirates. Their participation in both the organization and the artistic exhibitions underscores the high standing of Syrian expertise within international cultural and artistic forums.
The biennial, which runs until mid-November under the theme “Mizan” (Balance), brings together 272 artists and calligraphers from around the world. The event features a diverse collection of 681 artworks and includes a comprehensive cultural program consisting of 93 distinct events hosted across Sharjah’s premier cultural landmarks.
Syrian representation was notably highlighted by the participation of Mamoun Yaghmour, a Syrian expert selected to serve as a member of the event’s grand jury and selection committee, reflecting his extensive professional experience. Furthermore, Syrian creatives played an active role in the biennial’s cultural programming by conducting specialized workshops and intellectual lectures. These sessions explored the history and evolution of Arabic calligraphy, while also contributing to the accompanying international symposium that addressed themes of authenticity and leadership in calligraphic arts.
Throughout the 26 exhibitions hosted by the event, works from prominent Syrian artists have garnered attention. Renowned artist Mounir Al-Shaarani presented pieces inspired by contemporary Kufic script, while calligrapher Ahmed Al-Bashir showcased distinct techniques in the Diwani script and its clear variations. This creative excellence was further recognized when Syrian photographer Imad al-Din Mahmoud Alaa al-Din was awarded second place in the 2026 photography competition held in conjunction with the biennial.
Since its inception in 2004, the Sharjah Calligraphy Biennial has aimed to highlight the aesthetics of Arabic calligraphy and its diverse styles in contemporary art, extending its reach beyond traditional writing into broader visual and formative spaces. The theme “Mizan” emphasizes the values of balance and harmony, specifically the proportion of letters and their precise measurement, as well as the relationship between mass and space. Syrian participants embodied these principles in their works, which received widespread praise at cultural venues such as the Calligraphy Square and the Sharjah Art Museum.
This robust Syrian presence at a major international cultural event serves as a testament to the continuity of Syrian creativity and the ability of its artists to keep pace with global artistic trends. By contributing effectively to the intellectual and visual discourse of Arabic calligraphy, these creators continue to strengthen Syria’s position on the regional and international cultural map.
Source: Syria Focus Arabic
