Aphorisms from around the world interpreted in richly coloured compositions characterise the work of artist Hassan Massoudy. The internationally renowned contemporary artist lives and works in Paris. His visual implementation merges Arabic script’s creative potential with European and East Asian expressive forms, ideas and techniques.

Massoudy received his first training in classical Arabic calligraphy in his native Iraq, where he also operated his own calligraphy studio until the late 1960s. His desire for artistic experimentation ultimately motivated him to go to Paris to attend the Académie des Beaux Arts, where he developed his iconic style. Inspired by an aphorism and the associations and emotions it evokes, Massoudy intuitively creates sweeping forms in bold colours around a key word of the aphorism. In this process he leaves the rules of classical calligraphy far behind. Along with his reed pen – a kalam – Hassan Massoudy uses painting tools and paints he develops himself to execute his unique technique. These utensils are on display with his work in the exhibition.

A special exhibition of the Museum für Islamische Kunst (Museum for Islamic Art) – Staatliche Museen zu Berlin.