At just seven years old, Professor Mohamed Boukhana faced a troubling experience that could have changed his life. A teacher bullied him for his handwriting, saying he wrote with “chicken legs.” Instead of giving up, this challenge sparked a passion in him. “When you provoke an artist, you awaken the power that lies dormant within,” he shared.
Today, he proudly represents Morocco at the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair, showcasing his journey and the beauty of Moroccan calligraphy.
Professor Mohamed is more than just a survivor of bullying; he is a renowned educator and an ambassador for Moroccan calligraphy. He was invited to participate in the Book Fair, which started Wednesday as part of Morocco’s rich cultural delegation.
Journey into Calligraphy
The 50-year-old professor spoke about his journey into the world of calligraphy. “I was honored by the King of Morocco, but it all began with that teacher’s taunt,” he recalled. “I worked hard to improve my skills and eventually found my voice in art.” He stressed the importance of perseverance, saying, “Every stroke of the pen is a dance, a way to express emotions and connect with our heritage.”
This year’s SIBF theme, “It starts with a book,” perfectly captures the spirit of the event. It features over 2,520 publishers from 112 countries and numerous cultural activities until November 17. The fair will host 134 guests from 32 countries, leading over 500 events, including discussions, workshops, and readings, all celebrating the power of literature.
Showcasing Moroccan Calligraphy
As he displayed his artwork at the fair, Professor Mohamed highlighted the unique styles of Moroccan calligraphy: “Mabsoot, Al-Majohar, and Thuluth. These forms reflect our cultural identity,” he stated, adding, “I aim to share the beauty of Moroccan heritage with a global audience.”
His love for art goes beyond just aesthetics; he also sees calligraphy as a therapeutic practice. “Art therapy helps people manage life’s stresses. When we dip the ink and dance the pen, we create not just letters but a sense of peace.”
The Sacred Role of Calligraphy
Professor Mohamed passionately believes that calligraphy is more than an art form; it is a vital part of cultural heritage that will endure despite technology. “Calligraphy has a sacred role, especially when writing the Holy Quran,” he explained. “It has been cherished for centuries, and the careful craft of hand-written calligraphy cannot be replaced by machines.”
He recognizes the advantages of modern technology but insists that “while digital tools can improve access, they cannot replicate the intimacy and authenticity of hand-crafted art.”
He emphasized that writing by hand is a meditative practice that deepens one’s connection to their thoughts and heritage. “Each letter we create carries the weight of our history,” he remarked. “When we write, we engage in a conversation with our past, preserving it for future generations.”
Professor Mohamed believes that the feel of the pen on paper, the scent of the ink, and the rhythm of writing create an unbreakable bond between the artist and their craft.
A Hopeful Future for Calligraphy
He concluded with a hopeful outlook for the future of calligraphy: “As long as people appreciate beauty and tradition, the art of calligraphy will continue to thrive. It is a living tradition that evolves while staying rooted in the past. We must ensure this legacy carries on, blending the old with the new.” His dedication to teaching and preserving this art form serves as a powerful reminder that even in a rapidly changing world, some traditions are profoundly significant and will inspire future generations.
At the Moroccan corner of the fair, visitors also explored exhibits showcasing Morocco’s rich history, including rare maps and artifacts. Notable displays included the Al-Idrisi map, one of the oldest and most accurate maps created in 1154 AD, and a replica of the oldest known Homo sapiens skull, discovered in Jebel Irhoud.
