Syrian artist's stunning calligraphy captures the hope of a war torn country
Renowned artist Mouneer Al Shaarani is using his calligraphy art to inspire the people of Syria, who face daily turmoil in the war-torn country.
The master calligrapher, who has evolved the ancient Arabic tradition from its religious roots, is creating deeply intellectual work that reflects his interest in modern poetry and literature, alongside Christian and Sufi philosophy.
You May Also Like
Al Shaarani's work, which has been exhibited in the Middle East, UK, U.S. and Europe, will soon be shown for the first time in Australia at Sydney's Mils Gallery, but the artist was refused a visa to attend the show.
Despite the upheaval in Syria, Al Shaarani has said he remains dedicated to his nation's fate. "The situation is very bad, but it's my country, I feel at this time, I must not leave it. Before, I was living outside, but now I feel I must stay, live and work in order to inspire," he told The National in a 2015 interview.
A selection of his work, which marries the art form's Middle Eastern heritage with contemporary ideas and shapes, is below.
Have something to add to this story? Share it in the comments.
Ariel Bogle was an associate editor with Mashable in Australia covering technology. Previously, Ariel was associate editor at Future Tense in Washington DC, an editorial initiative between Slate and New America.
