Saudi calligrapher reflects on art beyond recognition

MAKKAH, Saudi Arabia (MNTV) — A Saudi calligrapher has described how winning a prestigious international competition marked not the peak of his career, but the beginning of a deeper artistic journey rooted in purpose and self-reflection.

Obaid Al-Nafie, who won the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Global Center for Arabic Calligraphy competition, said the recognition brought with it a heightened sense of responsibility rather than a feeling of completion.

Instead of viewing the award as an endpoint, he regards it as a moment that reshaped his understanding of art and his role within it.

Talking to Arab News, he explained that the real value of achievement lies in what follows — the ability to grow, refine one’s craft, and pursue deeper meaning. His artistic approach has since become more disciplined, shifting focus from technical skill to the exploration of expression and substance.

Al-Nafie’s process begins with immersing himself in the text, allowing its meaning to resonate fully before translating it into visual form. For him, sketching is not merely preparatory work but a stage where he studies balance, rhythm, and the emotional flow of the piece.

Execution, he noted, is the defining moment — where the artwork either comes alive or falls short of its potential.

He also emphasized the importance of evoking emotion rather than simply conveying information, drawing inspiration from elements such as architecture, environment, and history to create a deeper connection with viewers.

Addressing the relationship between tradition and modernity, Al-Nafie rejected the notion of conflict between the two. Instead, he described tradition as a foundation that offers stability, while modern approaches provide creative freedom. In his view, meaningful innovation stems from a profound understanding of classical roots.

He highlighted the role of constructive criticism as an essential tool for artistic growth, encouraging artists to look beyond surface-level feedback and engage with deeper insights that can reshape their perspective.

Al-Nafie also underscored the importance of self-evaluation, continually questioning whether each new work reflects personal identity and contributes something distinct. Without such progression, he warned, even visually striking work risks becoming repetitive.

While acknowledging the benefits of technology in saving time, he stressed that it cannot replace genuine experience or the discipline required to master the craft.

For aspiring calligraphers, he emphasized the necessity of building a strong foundation by learning fundamental principles, studying the work of established masters, and maintaining the confidence to experiment and evolve.

He cautioned against rushing the creative process or becoming overly focused on appearances, such as tools or imitation, warning that such distractions can hinder true artistic development.

Ultimately, he believes the lasting impact of any artwork is measured by its ability to resonate — by how often viewers return to it and the emotional response it evokes.

Amid a rapidly growing cultural landscape in Saudi Arabia, Al-Nafie sees vast opportunities for artists, but notes that the real challenge lies in cultivating a more discerning audience and embracing diverse perspectives.

Looking ahead, his ambitions extend beyond traditional boundaries, envisioning a form of calligraphy that is not only seen but experienced — an art that invites reflection, emotion, and a deeper connection beyond words.