PR83847

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, April 29, 2020 /PRNewswire=KYODO JBN/ --

Steeped in rich cultural heritage, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has for

centuries been home to some of history's finest Arabic calligraphers and

Islamic artists. The Saudi Ministry of Culture is celebrating this heritage and

leading the digital transformation of this specialized art form by launching

the world's first e-learning platform for Arabic calligraphy and Islamic

decorative arts.

The platform, Al Khattat ('The Calligrapher'), is an initiative of the Year of

Arabic Calligraphy and the Quality of Life Program, part of the Kingdom's

Vision 2030. The platform will be overseen by preeminent calligraphers from

both the Kingdom and across the Arab world, promoting cultural exchange and

enabling distinguished calligraphers to share their knowledge through training

courses, projects and workshops.

Al Khattat is the latest example of the Ministry's dedication to cultural and

digital transformation, allowing both budding calligraphers and

well-established artists to explore this ancient art form whilst remaining

safely at home as the world collectively battles the coronavirus pandemic.

The platform will give those interested in learning the art of Arabic

calligraphy an opportunity to attend classes conducted by the industry's

leading professionals, providing a platform for cultural creators to engage

with their international peers. Participants will be able to choose the style

of calligraphy as well as the specific calligrapher they wish to learn from as

they choose from a variety of training courses, including Arabic calligraphy,

gilding and panel making. Participants are also invited to study font design,

where they will learn how to create Arabic computer fonts.

A symbol of national identity, Arabic calligraphy is deeply woven into the

Kingdom's history; its aesthetic beauty reflecting the prosperity of Saudi

culture. The Ministry of Culture's support for this platform highlights its

appreciation and celebration of the art form and its history, as it seeks to

develop and nurture a rich cultural ecosystem while sharing Saudi heritage with

the world.

Al Khattat platform can be accessed at https://www.alkhattat.net

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1161115/The_Calligrapher.jpg

Source: Ministry of Culture, KSA