Analysis Of Hassan Massoudy And Mattar Bin Lahej

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While the medium of calligraphy has commonly been ink on paper, contemporary artists continuously stretch and challenge the boundaries this traditional art. Two artists in particular represent such efforts to provide new shape and life to calligraphy: Hassan Massoudy and Mattar bin Lahej. Transforming calligraphy from a static art, Iraqi artist Hassan Massoudy introduces theatrically-inspired form and movement to his letters, while Emirati artist Mattar bin Lahej transitions calligraphy to the third dimension by his sculptures. Despite the visual differences between these two artists’ works, both reflect to re-explore the expressive capacities of the word. Hassan Massoudy, born in 1944 in Najef, Iraq, he moved to Baghdad at age 16 to become an apprentice for professional calligraphers, but left in 1969 for Paris due to Iraq’s volatile political situation. Studying …show more content…

Through his “choreographed” letters, Massoudy gives physical form to emotions and ideas. For example, in his work “I love a flower that is slow to blossom,” (See Figure 2) he shapes the word “flower” with curves that resemble petals. The word “flower” is repeatedly written in green ink to form a leaf, or a garden speckled with red and yellow flowers. The quote written out in a straight line evokes the image of a stem. In “Love understands all languages,” (See Figure 3) Massoudy focuses on the word “heart” and contrasts broad strokes alongside thin lines. By varying stroke widths, he creates strong movement and dramatic effect, expressing the all-consuming power of love. The color red is also representative of passion. Interestingly, the broad brushstrokes resemble the mast of a ship on sea, perhaps emphasizing the truth that love transcends geographic boundaries. In this way, Massoudy gives the word physical form capable movement and emotion—much like an actor on

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