Saudi calligraffiti artist rewrites tradition using bold strokes

Inspired by the expressive potential of the written word, Ahmed Sl-Sulaimani began experimenting, blending calligraphy with bold and dynamic graffiti. (AN photo by Huda Bashatah)
1 / 5
Inspired by the expressive potential of the written word, Ahmed Sl-Sulaimani began experimenting, blending calligraphy with bold and dynamic graffiti. (AN photo by Huda Bashatah)
Saudi calligraffiti artist rewrites tradition using bold strokes
2 / 5
For Saudi artist Ahmed Al Sulaimani, his unique blend of Arabic calligraphy and graffiti-inspired techniques is more than just an artistic endeavor - it's a way to share the beauty and depth of Islamic culture with the world. Al-Sulaimani's work is infused with powerful Quranic verses and Islamic themes, serving as a captivating gateway for viewers to explore the profound meaning behind the intricate calligraphic forms. (AN photo by Huda Bashatah)
Saudi calligraffiti artist rewrites tradition using bold strokes
3 / 5
Inspired by the expressive potential of the written word, Ahmed Sl-Sulaimani began experimenting, blending calligraphy with bold and dynamic graffiti. (AN photo by Huda Bashatah)
Saudi calligraffiti artist rewrites tradition using bold strokes
4 / 5
Inspired by the expressive potential of the written word, Ahmed Sl-Sulaimani began experimenting, blending calligraphy with bold and dynamic graffiti. (AN photo by Huda Bashatah)
Saudi calligraffiti artist rewrites tradition using bold strokes
5 / 5
For Saudi artist Ahmed Al Sulaimani, his unique blend of Arabic calligraphy and graffiti-inspired techniques is more than just an artistic endeavor - it's a way to share the beauty and depth of Islamic culture with the world. Al-Sulaimani's work is infused with powerful Quranic verses and Islamic themes, serving as a captivating gateway for viewers to explore the profound meaning behind the intricate calligraphic forms. (AN photo by Huda Bashatah)
Short Url
Updated 15 August 2024
Follow

Saudi calligraffiti artist rewrites tradition using bold strokes

Saudi calligraffiti artist rewrites tradition using bold strokes
  • Ahmed Al-Sulaimani’s works are shining a light on the rich cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia

RIYADH: Saudi artist Ahmed Al-Sulaimani is redefining the boundaries of traditional art forms by blending Arabic calligraphy and graffiti-inspired techniques.

The Riyadh-based artist’s journey into the realm of calligraffiti began during an Arabic calligraphy course in school where he discovered his passion for the intricate art.

Inspired by the expressive potential of the written word, Al-Sulaimani began experimenting, blending this ancient art form with bold and dynamic graffiti.




The Riyadh-based artist designed Arabic signage for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. (Instagram/asofficial___ )

“Calligraffiti is a fusion of Arabic calligraphy and graffiti art,” Al-Sulaimani told Arab News. “While graffiti typically uses the English language and letters, calligraffiti combines Arabic calligraphy with graffiti techniques. I form Arabic letters using graffiti-inspired styles and methods.”

This approach has not only captured the attention of art enthusiasts but has also opened doors to remarkable opportunities, including a mural collaboration with Jeddah Municipality that marked his first foray into large-scale public art.

“This project allowed me to showcase my skills in integrating Arabic calligraphy into large-scale murals,” he said. “It caught the attention of many and inspired me to continue exploring the use of Arabic calligraphy in public art.”

HIGHLIGHT

Ahmed Al- Sulaimani’s projects include a mural collaboration with Jeddah municipality that marked his first foray into large-scale public art.

Following that project, the ministry selected Al-Sulaimani to design and produce large-scale murals in 10 cities across the Kingdom, including on bridges, towers, and public spaces.

The pinnacle of his achievements, however, came with the opportunity to design Arabic signage for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Tasked with creating towering structures featuring Qur’anic phrases, Al-Sulaimani’s work brought the beauty of the Arabic language to the global stage.

“The towers, some reaching 40 meters in height, featured Qur’anic phrases that emphasized the diversity of the human experience,” he added.




Ahmed Al-Sulaimani's work is infused with powerful Quranic verses and Islamic themes, serving as a captivating gateway for viewers to explore the profound meaning behind the intricate calligraphic forms. (AN photo by Huda Bashatah)

Beyond his mural work, Al-Sulaimani has also shared his expertise with international audiences. He has facilitated workshops teaching Arabic calligraphy to Harvard students visiting Saudi Arabia, introducing the art form to those unfamiliar with the Arabic language.

“I aim to bring this unique art form to the forefront and showcase the richness and versatility of the Arabic language,” he noted.

He is also working on launching his own Arabic font that will “combine elements from various calligraphic styles” and reflect “a distinct Saudi identity.”

I aim to bring this unique art form to the forefront and showcase the richness and versatility of the Arabic language.

Ahmed Al-Sulaimani, Saudi artist

The artist said: “This project is a reflection of my desire to create a font that is uniquely representative of the Saudi culture. The font will be out by the end of this year and will be used digitally as well.”

Al-Sulaimani noted that his works are more than just an artistic endeavor; they are a way to share the beauty and depth of Islamic culture with the world. His calligraffiti is infused with Qur’anic verses and Islamic themes that encourage viewers to explore the meaning behind the words.

Despite the challenges he has faced, including the reluctance of established artists to mentor beginners and misconceptions about the legitimacy of his approach, Al-Sulaimani remains undeterred. He has found creative ways to overcome these obstacles, including inventing his own tools and techniques.

With unwavering dedication and innovative spirit, the Saudi artist is shining a bright light on the rich cultural heritage of the Kingdom and leaving a meaningful mark on the world of contemporary art.

 

Decoder

What is Calligraffiti?

“Calligraffiti is a fusion of Arabic calligraphy and graffiti art,” says Saudi artist Ahmed Al-Sulaimani, whose work has captured the attention of art enthusiasts and opened doors to remarkable opportunities, including the chance to design Arabic signage for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.


Saudi Arabia pushes for environmental cooperation

Saudi Arabia pushes for environmental cooperation
Updated 5 sec ago
Follow

Saudi Arabia pushes for environmental cooperation

Saudi Arabia pushes for environmental cooperation
  • Deputy Minister of Environment Mansour Al-Mushaiti urged GCC countries to ratify the Middle East Green Initiative charter and set national targets for tree planting and land rehabilitation
  • Al-Mushaiti said that GCC meetings had advanced environmental efforts and sustainable development in the region

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has emphasized the need for regional and international cooperation to tackle environmental challenges, particularly in rehabilitating degraded lands and boosting resilience to drought.

Deputy Minister of Environment Mansour Al-Mushaiti highlighted these points at the 26th GCC meeting on environmental affairs in Qatar, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Al-Mushaiti urged GCC countries to ratify the Middle East Green Initiative charter and set national targets for tree planting and land rehabilitation.

He also called for increased support from GCC national development funds for vegetation projects.

Al-Mushaiti said that GCC meetings had advanced environmental efforts and sustainable development in the region.

He stressed the importance of addressing environmental protection, climate change, and balancing development with resource preservation.

Al-Mushaiti expressed the hope that Saudi Arabia’s hosting of COP16 in December would significantly impact global efforts to combat land degradation and drought.

He called for active participation from all GCC countries, international and regional organizations, the private sector, and civil society.


Saudi crown prince receives China’s PM

Saudi crown prince receives China’s PM
Updated 1 min 41 sec ago
Follow

Saudi crown prince receives China’s PM

Saudi crown prince receives China’s PM

RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang in the Kingdom on Wednesday.

A welcoming ceremony was held in the premier’s honor.

Li is in the Kingdom to attend a meeting of the High-Level Saudi-Chinese Committee. He is also due to visit the UAE this week.

 


Riyadh forum to discuss best practices in corporate social responsibility

Riyadh forum to discuss best practices in corporate social responsibility
Updated 29 min 50 sec ago
Follow

Riyadh forum to discuss best practices in corporate social responsibility

Riyadh forum to discuss best practices in corporate social responsibility
  • Experts from around world to share strategies for sustainable business models, community empowerment 

JEDDAH: Riyadh will host the Global CSR Forum on Oct. 28-29, promoting social responsibility and sustainability worldwide.

The forum aims to share global experiences, encourage discussions, and identify solutions to enhance innovation and competitiveness in the social responsibility sector.

The two-day event will feature more than 100 speakers and experts from across the world. It seeks to deepen understanding of corporate social responsibility and empower sectors to excel locally and internationally.

Mubarak Al-Bogami, director general of the social responsibility department at the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, said: “The forum is poised to deliver a powerful impact both locally and globally.”

He said: “On the home front, it promises to enhance corporate social responsibility efforts, while on the global stage, it will serve as a vibrant hub for showcasing and sharing best practices in CSR.”

Al-Boqami added: “The core message is clear: The Global CSR Forum is a catalyst for change. It is a space where companies from around the world can connect, share insights, and collaborate to advance social responsibility on a global scale. This collaborative approach not only benefits the environment and communities but also empowers businesses to thrive and achieve their goals.”

Mubarak Al-Bogami, director general of the social responsibility department at the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.

The forum’s diverse program will highlight key CSR themes, including the public sector’s role in supporting CSR initiatives, responsible business models, capacity building, and using technology to enhance social and environmental impact. It will also cover principles, standards, best practices for CSR compliance, and share experiences from various sectors.

Al-Boqami said that the forum would contribute to the knowledge economy in social responsibility by sharing the latest advancements and improving best practices.

“It aims to embed a culture of social responsibility across global sectors, share successful experiences, build strategic partnerships, and support individuals in developing specific social responsibility skills.”

He added that the forum would facilitate the exchange of global best practices for Saudi companies.

“Saudi Arabia is making significant strides in global indicators, securing leading positions in many areas. The 2024 Competitiveness Report from the IMD World Competitiveness Center highlights this progress, particularly in social responsibility, where the Kingdom now ranks 16th globally,” Al-Boqami said.

Saudi Arabia has launched several initiatives to promote social responsibility, including designating March 23 as Social Responsibility Day, which has gained international recognition for its impact on global efforts.

Al-Boqami said that the forum presented a valuable opportunity to align these efforts by fostering communication and sharing successes and best practices.

He added that with participation from experts across all sectors, the forum would support precise knowledge transfer and the refinement of experiences.


Study finds fish farming wastewater boosts date fruit weight, nutrients

Study finds fish farming wastewater boosts date fruit weight, nutrients
Updated 46 min 39 sec ago
Follow

Study finds fish farming wastewater boosts date fruit weight, nutrients

Study finds fish farming wastewater boosts date fruit weight, nutrients

RIYADH: The Saudi Ministry of Environment has introduced an innovative irrigation technique using fish farming wastewater, significantly increasing date palm productivity across the Kingdom.

Recent research reveals that this method boosts soil nutrient levels and enhances various qualities of dates, improving their economic value, reported the Saudi Press Agency on Wednesday.

Conducted by a specialized team, the study, titled “The Impact of Using Fish Farm Wastewater on Palm Production” highlights this approach as a breakthrough in sustainable agriculture.

Nutrients in fish food residues, especially ammonia, enhance soil health and crop yield, SPA stated.

According to the study, date palms irrigated with fish farming water saw a 26 percent increase in fruit weight, 17 percent in length, and 13 percent in diameter.

Key nutrients in the dates also surged: sugar content increased by 25 percent, zinc by 367 percent, manganese by 112 percent, copper by 9 percent, calcium by 15 percent, phosphorus by 42 percent, and iron by 162 percent.

This research supports a national initiative to expand applied agricultural research, integral to the Kingdom’s transformation strategy.

The study estimates that the Kingdom’s 362 fish farms produce 386 million cubic meters of wastewater annually. Utilizing this for irrigation could significantly improve local date production and quality, aligning with Vision 2030’s sustainability goals.

The study also emphasizes economic benefits, including enhanced soil nitrogen and organic matter, reduced dependence on synthetic fertilizers, water conservation, increased farmer income, and promotion of a circular economy.


KSrelief supervisor general meets UK development minister

KSrelief supervisor general meets UK development minister
Updated 11 September 2024
Follow

KSrelief supervisor general meets UK development minister

KSrelief supervisor general meets UK development minister

RIYADH: Anneliese Dodds, the British minister for development, has praised Saudi Arabia’s humanitarian efforts in various countries of the world through its relief agency KSrelief.
The minister made this comment during a video conference Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al-Rabeeah, the head of KSrelief, where they also discussed matters of common interest related to humanitarian and relief affairs.
Meanwhile, Ahmed bin Ali Al-Baiz, KSrelief assistant supervisor for operations and programs, met with Gavi Vaccine Alliance chief executive Sania Nishtar in Riyadh to discuss humanitarian and relief measures and ways to provide essential vaccines to countries assessed in need.
Elsewhere, the aid agency has also awarded an initial approval certificate to the Ain Ophthalmology Association in Jazan, allowing it to conduct operations outside the Kingdom.
In Jordan, KSrelief clinics provided services to 2,551 Syrian refugees in Zaatari Camp.