Dubai-based artists share their Ramadan art

Islamic calligraphy is inspired mainly by the Quran

Ramadan Kareem, we use this greeting, to wish our colleagues, family members, acquaintances, et al during the Holy Month. "These greetings are exchanged extensively during this time as the Muslim community observes a fast from dawn to dusk. Ramadan Kareem means 'Have a blessed Ramadan' or more specifically 'May Ramadan be generous to you'," shares local artist Afshan Quraishi, as she explains the thought behind her artwork.
An ardent fan of Islamic calligraphy, she feels it lends a calming expression to her work.
Passionate about calligraphy and arts, Fatemah Hosseini, shares she will be exhibiting her works in Dubai and Sharjah when things return to normal. Whilst, she works in calligraphy all through the year, she says, "It becomes significant during Ramadan as all the words are from the Quran."
She adds, "People in the Middle East love calligraphy." She is keen to spread this passion amongst others as well.
Dr Romit Purohit, who runs The PaintBrush Art Community, to promote the works of the local artists, shares; "I am married to an artist, Sonal, but my hands become 'surgical' in medicine." Whilst these days he is devoted to helping his patients, he adds, "I remember reading that architecture calligraphy was used to decorate the interior and exterior of buildings to help remind citizens of the purpose of the architecture: to glorify God. So that is what we see during Ramadan."
Afshan Quraishi, artist
"Ramadanisation is a phrase coined to describe the spirit of Ramadan in the UAE. When Ramadan is in the air, the city comes alive with a festive look. Even though the congregational prayers are suspended and there is a solemn atmosphere this year, the UAE government is making every effort to keep its people in good spirits."
Dr Romit Purohit, founder, The PaintBrush Art Community
"Calligraphy is a committed art form used in the Quran; so all Islamic versus are written in calligraphy."
purva@khaleejtimes.com