Calligraphy, the art of beautiful writing, has been practised by almost all civilisations possessing a written language.
In the Islamic world, the eight styles of calligraphy with their sophisticated, abstract and masterful arabesques praise the word of God.
Similarly, in the West, the art created by monks is an exercise in spiritual asceticism. In the scriptorium, the monks copy works, which, in their most sumptuous form – illuminated manuscripts – are precious objects whose luxurious decoration is aimed at magnifying the sacred texts.
In Asia, this type of writing is the highest art form par excellence; the man of letters, with the help of his four treasures – rice paper, calligraphy brush, Indian ink and inkstone - transcribes the breath of life, turning it into signs.
A source of inspiration for numerous contemporary artists, the abstract technique of calligraphy, or the art of giving form to signs, invites contemplation and meditation.