What materials does a calligrapher need other than pen and paper?

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Compared to calligraphy, the lines in decorative art are thinner and what I like the most is that we draw them with a brush. The line starts thin, then thickens, then thins again. The details and fineness of this art are unique. So, how important is the line here? Every element starts with a line and ends with a line. During my education in Cairo, I took both calligraphy and decorative lessons. Both have different weights and difficulties. We need to learn how to do it from the experts, the masters, and also witness it with our own eyes so that we can repeat it and try it ourselves.

I would like to ask the previous question in order to further elaborate it: What is the relationship between calligraphy and other classical Islamic arts? How does it feed on them, how is it influenced by them?

As we have just mentioned, calligraphy has similarities with the art of decoration. We can also add architecture to this. Calligraphy compositions that decorate the interior and exterior structures of a building are an indicator of this. We can see this best in Istanbul, one of the most beautiful cities WhatsApp Number List in the world; it is possible to see how calligraphy forms a unity with other classical Islamic arts in museums, streets and squares. Calligraphy, which decorates palaces, squares and gates and prevents them from having only architectural features, can be said to have reached its peak in Turkey. For example, there is an inscription on each gate in the Grand Bazaar. (I have heard that there are 24 gates, but I am not sure. What I especially like is that these structures are still preserved and restored today.)

For example, the writings carved on the walls of mosques and written in pure gold attract both our attention and the tourists. I noticed that everyone who has visited Istanbul is fascinated by the beauty of the city. Why? Because in every corner, it is possible to come across the magnificent harmony of classical Islamic arts. Look, we can see this everywhere, not just in museums. This is actually an indication of how well the Turks can write in calligraphy and how they can integrate it with other classical Islamic arts.

In addition to all the things you mentioned, I would like to ask a question that will satisfy curiosity for those who want to start: What are the characteristics sought in a person who starts calligraphy? Is calligraphy a talent and what is the way to understand it?

As with everything else, talent is a blessing, a sustenance that Allah has given us. Sustenance is not just food, drink, wealth, or property. Sustenance is also intelligence and the love you feel for something, and this love actually shows your inclination towards it. Some people come and say, “I don’t know what I am talented at.” Then think about what you are talented at, what you like and love. If you love something, then you have talent for it. Try to develop it and use it wisely. As it is said in the hadith: “When Allah grants someone a blessing, He also brings to life the traces of that blessing in that person.” The duty of a calligrapher here is great.



As in every work, it is necessary to feel love for what is written in calligraphy. For example, there are colors and shapes in painting, while calligraphy shows itself through writing and brings it to the forefront. The love that the artist feels allows him to research the composition he writes even more, to be more devoted to it and not to get bored with it. As stated in the 54th and 55th verses of the Qamar Surah: “Surely the righteous will be in the gardens and by the rivers, in the presence of a Mighty King (Allah) in the abode of truth.” While reading the Quran, our hearts drift to certain verses. This sometimes stems from the meaning. A calligrapher who is captivated by a verse is in search of a composition that is suitable for the beauty of the verse and its meaning. Our love and respect for the meaning pushes us to write it in its most beautiful form. This is related to harmony, our sensitivity and balance.

The most important characteristic of an artist is their desire for calmness and the best writing of details. This is “itkan” in Arabic; that is, approaching not only the composition but also every detail of the composition with devotion to the paper and pen we prepare. It is of great importance to be patient and calm here. This calmness is also reflected in the faces and behaviors of calligraphers. This is an indication of how beautiful an effect art can have on people.