Qatar’s Awqaf Ministry Launches Inaugural Al Raqim Arabic Calligraphy Competition

Qatar has enriched its cultural heritage by introducing the first-ever Qatar International Arabic Calligraphy Competition, Al Raqim. This distinguished event, inaugurated by Ghanem bin Shaheen Al Ghanim, the Minister of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs, occurred at the Sheikh Abdulla bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Centre in Doha. Developed in partnership with the Qatar Museum of Islamic Art (MIA), Al Raqim is set to elevate the status of Arabic calligraphy on the global stage, promoting it as a significant cultural and artistic expression. This initiative highlights Qatar’s commitment to cultural enrichment and aims to connect communities through the timeless art of Arabic calligraphy.

Arabic calligraphy, a revered artistic tradition in the Arab world, is celebrated for its intricate beauty and historical significance, often seen as a visual expression of the soul of its culture. The Al Raqim competition seeks to uphold this tradition while fostering a bridge between Qatar and the broader Arab community, in alignment with the Qatar National Vision 2030. This initiative envisions Qatar as a beacon of cultural exchange, particularly within Arab nations.

Shaika Al Nassr, the director of MIA, emphasized the competition’s role in enhancing Qatar’s position as a central hub for Arabic culture and arts. Al Nassr highlighted the event’s potential to challenge and inspire the region’s youth, fostering a competitive spirit and encouraging innovative artistic expressions that address contemporary cultural challenges.

Competition Categories in Arabic Calligraphy

Al Raqim offers five distinct categories, each designed to showcase different styles of Arabic calligraphy. The categories include Thuluth Script (Jeli and regular), Nashk Script, Diwani Jeli Script, Nasta’liq Jeli Script, and Kufic Quranic Script. The competition is rigorous, with a first-place prize of 85,000 Qatari riyals ($23,400) for the Thuluth Script category, while the other categories offer 70,000 Qatari riyals ($18,700) each.

Saleh bin Ali Al Marri, director of the Islamic Centre and chairman of the Al Raqim organizing committee, described the event as a “visual marker” that promotes the Arabic language, enriches Arab identity, and revitalizes Islamic culture and arts. Moreover, it serves as a platform for cultural dialogue, reinforcing the bonds between tradition and modernity.

Preserving Heritage and Fostering Talent

Al Raqim not only celebrates historical Arabic art forms but also aims to preserve the linguistic heritage of the Holy Quran through the art of calligraphy. The competition is inclusive, and open to men and women aged 18 and above from Qatar and other Arab countries. Each participant is invited to submit one original piece of calligraphy art, ensuring a level playing field for all.

The judging panel, which will be comprised of five renowned calligraphers from across the globe, is set to be announced soon. This panel will evaluate the submissions based on artistic merit, adherence to traditional techniques, and innovative interpretation of classical forms.

A Cultural Beacon

By hosting the Al Raqim Arabic Calligraphy Competition, Qatar reinforces its role as a key advocate for cultural preservation and a pioneer in artistic innovation. This prestigious event serves as a critical platform for enhancing intercultural dialogue and fostering global appreciation through the universal appeal of art. It invites calligraphy enthusiasts and artists from around the world to explore and celebrate the rich artistic heritage of the Arab world. The Al Raqim competition is poised to become a landmark event, showcasing the beauty and intricacy of Arabic calligraphy and connecting diverse cultures through shared artistic expressions.

As Qatar continues to cultivate its cultural landscape, the Al Raqim Arabic Calligraphy Competition stands as a testament to the nation’s commitment to cultural excellence and its role in the global arts community.