The fading art of Kufic calligraphy is an ancient writing form that is being currently displayed at the 36th edition of Sharjah International Book Fair, SIBF.

Vahid Jazayeri, famous for being a master of Kufic calligraphy, is offering insightful lessons on the art of this ancient Arabic technique at SIBF 2017, using the fair to explain to interested visitors the connection between the ‘forms of the alphabets and their content’ that shape the identity of any language.

"It is good to be a part of such a big event like SIBF, as it is a very effective way of meeting people who are interested in knowing more about literature as a part of our cultural heritage. Kufic is one of the oldest scripts in which Quranic verses were written. The response of the visitors on the first day has been overwhelming; many youngsters have come up to me to enquire about this dying art and also to try their hand at Kufic writing," said Jazayeri.

Jazayeri said that it was "encouraging" that more and more young people were interested in learning Kufic script, an ancient art which traces its history back over many centuries and which uses specially carved pens for writing. The skilled artist is conducting live sessions with pens that he has carved himself.