A new exhibition at the Arab World Institute, not far from our hotels, looks in detail at the various forms of khatt – Arab writing or calligraphy – from the first pages of the Koran to contemporary uses, where harmony and proportions are always paramount.

Calligraphy has its roots in the 9th century, with norms that evolved over the centuries until it foudn new favour during the 1960, with numerous artists rediscovering and reinventing it.

The influence of this ‘art of writing’ can now be found in graffiti, certain sculptures follow the same flowing gestures as a quill would make… The exhibition shows how ancient traditions are maintained in this way through texts, and how these texts inspire other forms of art.

To complement the exhibition, there are introductory workshops for adults ands others for children, a clay engraving workshop to partake in as a family, and a special afternoon for teachers on 5th March, which includes a presentation of the exhibition by the venue’s museum manager and curator of the exhibition, Eric Delpont, followed by a workshop.

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The exhibition To write or calligraph? (Ecrire ou calligraphier ? L’alphabet arabe sublimé) is at the museum of the Arab World Institute (here) until 21st September 2025

Open every day except Mondays from 10am-6pm (7pm weekends and public holidays)

Admission: 10€

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Une publication partagée par Institut du monde arabe (@institutdumondearabe)