IMPROVISATION

Ali Shirazi approaches calligraphy as an art form deeply rooted in the cultures, literature, and architecture of Iran, Turkey, and the Arab world. With more than 60 countries using the same alphabet, Shirazi believes that what distinguishes Persian calligraphy is not simply the script itself, but the creative process—the ability to capture each moment of artistic feeling within the work.

In traditional calligraphic practice, the artist first outlines the intended composition with a fine, light-coloured pencil, using it almost like a stencil. The letters are then filled in with pen and ink, before a fine steel pen is used to correct imperfections. This method has been practiced for centuries, particularly when creating large letters wider than 5 mm. Shirazi considers such a process closer to craft than art, arguing that, like all forms of artistic expression, calligraphy should act as…