Art of patience and precision
Kuwaiti calligrapher Abdulamir Al-Bannai has spent decades shaping the elegant curves of Arabic script into art. In a conversation with Kuwait Times, he shared insights from his extensive career and passion for calligraphy — a journey that began in childhood and continues to this day. Al-Bannai, who served as head of the calligraphy and drawing department at Kuwait Television in 2002, has contributed significantly to the presence of Arabic calligraphy on national television since 1978. Beyond his professional contributions, he is also an active member of several local and regional organizations dedicated to the preservation and advancement of Arabic calligraphy.
A journey rooted in curiosity
'My calligraphy journey started in elementary school,' he recalled. 'My Arabic teacher had a very beautiful handwriting style. I used to imitate it, and he encouraged me by writing notes like 'Thank you for this beautiful line' in my notebook. That motivated me and improved my drawing skills, as I tried to replicate the letters exactly as I saw them.'
As he grew older, Al-Bannai would frequent calligraphy shops, observing the work of experienced calligraphers to absorb their techniques — even if just by watching.
Abdulamir Al-Bannai
Jali Diwani: A signature style
Of the many traditional Arabic scripts, Al-Bannai holds a particular fondness for the Jali Diwani style, which he has mastered and frequently uses in exhibitions. 'Jali Diwani is my favorite,' he said. 'It evolved from the Diwani script during the late 16th century under the Ottomans. While it shares the Diwani script's hallmark of rounded, overlapping letters, Jali Diwani is distinguished by its ornate, decorative marks that fill the spaces between characters.'
This elaborate script demands not only technical skill but also an artistic eye for balance and composition — qualities that Al-Bannai has refined through years of practice.
Advice for aspiring calligraphers
Al-Bannai encourages emerging artists to study the works of master calligraphers and to remain committed to continuous practice. 'Calligraphy requires patience,' he emphasized. 'Whoever doesn't have patience cannot become a calligrapher.'
He advises beginners to start with simpler scripts, which help build hand control and spatial awareness. 'It's important to understand dimensions and flexibility, and to use good materials — like high-quality pens, soft polished paper and silk threads placed in the inkwell circle.'
But technical skill alone isn't enough, he adds. Selecting meaningful phrases and wise sayings to write is also part of the artistry. 'Keep your writings, and revisit them over the years to see how you've developed,' he said. With his decades of dedication, Al-Bannai exemplifies how Arabic calligraphy is more than a craft — it is a lifelong artistic pursuit rooted in culture, discipline and deep personal expression.
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