An artist-in-residence program in Jeddah is playing a key role in reviving Arabic calligraphy by reintroducing the art form through a contemporary lens that blends heritage with innovation.
The program provides an immersive creative environment where calligraphy artists can work, experiment, and collaborate. Through dedicated studios, workshops, and discussion sessions, participants explore new artistic techniques and visual expressions while remaining deeply rooted in the historical and aesthetic foundations of Arabic calligraphy.
Resident artists produce works inspired by Arab and Islamic heritage, reinterpreting traditional scripts within modern contexts such as exhibitions, installations, and interactive projects. This approach helps broaden the appeal of Arabic calligraphy and brings it closer to contemporary audiences, particularly younger generations.
Beyond artistic production, the initiative emphasizes knowledge transfer and skill development. By offering hands-on learning opportunities and direct engagement with professional artists, the program supports the sustainability of calligraphy as a living art form and encourages emerging talent to pursue creative pathways rooted in cultural identity.
The program reflects Jeddah’s growing role as a cultural and artistic hub, fostering creative initiatives that preserve traditional arts while presenting them in modern formats. It also aligns with the Kingdom’s broader efforts to celebrate cultural heritage and integrate it into the evolving global arts landscape.
