Calligraphy 

Abdul Qader Al Raes, an Emirati artist born in 1951, created this painting using calligraphy, a highly respected art form rooted in Islamic tradition. Al Raes was part of a generation of artists who sought to blend modern art techniques with their cultural heritage. As the United Arab Emirates rapidly modernized, artists like Al Raes navigated questions of cultural identity and sought to preserve tradition in a changing world. Here, Al Raes uses vibrant colors and abstract forms, layering these over the elegant script. The Arabic calligraphy, often based on verses from the Quran, carries deep spiritual meaning. Yet Al Raes’s contemporary style reflects a personal expression of faith, moving away from traditional, rigid forms. It becomes a dance between the sacred and the contemporary, reflecting his personal journey and the broader cultural shifts in the Emirates. This piece evokes a sense of reverence, contemplation, and the emotional power of words and symbols.