Towards Another Land

2012

calligraphy by Hassan Massoudy

(Iraq, 1944-)

text by Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi

(Iranian, 1207–1273)

Iraq, 21st century

pigments on paper

Paper: 74.9 x 54.9 cm (29 1/2 x 21 5/8 in.)

L. E. Holden Fund 2013.65

Location: not on view

This artwork is known to be under copyright.

Did You Know?

Instead of following traditional classical styles of Arabic calligraphy which were written with deep brown ink, Massoudy developed his own distinctive styles and introduced a masterful use of vibrant colors in his compositions.

Description

This dynamic calligraphic art by the Iraqi artist Hassan Massoudy integrates three styles of Arabic script. Large Arabic letters with strong sweeping curves washed in opalescent turquoise complement the small text written in his elegant version of angular Kufic script. It reads, "Towards another land—a country where only light reigns," by the Iranian poet Rumi. Silhouetted script in the central area contributes to the vibrant harmony of this stunning work.

Hassan Massoudy grew up in Iraq where he practiced calligraphy but had to emigrate in order to study figure painting. In Paris, however, calligraphy became increasingly prominent in his art, eventually it took over, and has also been incorporated in his performance art.