Calligraphy Qalam: An Introduction to Arabic, Persian and Ottoman Calligraphy

Welcome

Welcome to Calligraphy Qalam—we’re glad you’re here. On this website you'll find a variety of interactive tools and information to help you learn more about calligraphy in the Arab, Ottoman and Persian traditions.

Frequently-asked questions

• What is Arabic script calligraphy?
• What is the difference between calligraphy and handwriting?
• Are there different styles of writing calligraphy?
• What tools are used to write calligraphy?
• What kinds of things are written in calligraphy?
• How do I read calligraphy?

Where to start

• Look at images of calligraphy
• Learn about the Arabic alphabet
• Watch calligraphy being written
• Learn about different calligraphy styles
• Test your script recognition
• Find a calligraphy teacher near you
• Learn about key master calligraphers
• Discover the calligraphy process
• Start a discussion or ask a question
• Get tips on reading calligraphy
• Get the most recent calligraphy news
• Check out answers to common questions

Calligraphy gallery

Calligraphy Qalam has an online image gallery of over 300 pieces of calligraphy, with more added all the time. Check out the gallery.