Exhibition "To Write or to Calligraph? The Sublime Arabic Alphabet" Institut of the Arab World from February 5 to September 21, 2025

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The exhibition "To Write or to Calligraph? The Sublime Arabic Alphabet" explores the art of Arabic calligraphy, from its origins in the Quran to its influence in modern media and street art. Discover exceptional works, contemporary sculptures, and participate in introductory calligraphy workshops.

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Exhibition "To Write or to Calligraph? The Sublime Arabic Alphabet": Buy your tickets

Entrance ticket to IMA

-A sensory and cultural immersion
-A journey through time and art
-A living and evolving art form
-Workshops for everyone
-Reservation recommended

From February 5 to September 21, 2025

€9

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What to expect

Discover the Sublime Art of Arabic Calligraphy: Book Your Visit for the Exhibition "To Write or to Calligraph? The Sublimed Arabic Alphabet"

A Journey into the Heart of Arabic Calligraphy

Arabic calligraphy is far more than just writing—it is a living art form, rich with symbolism and depth. The Arabic word khatt refers to both writing and calligraphy, emphasizing the importance of harmony, beauty, and proportion in every movement of the artist’s hand. This exhibition highlights this richness, from the earliest Qur’anic manuscripts to contemporary works exploring new visual forms. You’ll discover exceptional artifacts such as 17th-century funerary steles, captivating photographs, and contemporary sculptures, illustrating the evolution of calligraphy through the centuries.

A Symbolic Venue: The IMA Museum

The Institut du Monde Arabe (IMA) is a landmark cultural center for the Arab world in Paris. Located in the heart of the city near the Left Bank of the Seine, the IMA is a leading cultural and artistic hub. Designed by architect Jean Nouvel, the museum is an architectural masterpiece blending modernity with traditional Arab influences. Its unique design and rich collections offer an ideal setting for an exhibition that honors a millennia-old art form while placing it within a contemporary context.

The museum is located at 1, rue des Fossés-Saint-Bernard, in the 5th arrondissement—a lively neighborhood easily accessible by public transportation, notably via metro (Jussieu station, lines 7 and 10). The exhibition is held on the 5th floor of the museum, with entry through the 7th floor, providing a beautiful view of the city as you explore the art of Arabic calligraphy.

Workshops for All Audiences

In addition to the exhibition visit, the museum offers introductory workshops in Arabic calligraphy for adults, children, and even families. These workshops are the perfect opportunity to uncover the secrets of calligraphic art and put into practice what you’ve learned from the exhibition. Led by experts and professional calligraphers, these sessions will introduce you to Arabic writing following precise rules of harmony and proportion. For younger participants, specially designed workshops offer a fun and engaging introduction to this ancient art.

The workshops provide a hands-on, enriching experience, making your visit to the IMA a complete cultural journey. Learning the art of calligraphy also deepens your appreciation of the exhibition by highlighting the connection between visual art and writing.

Must-See Contemporary Works

The exhibition is not limited to historical pieces. It also features contemporary works that demonstrate how Arabic calligraphy has evolved over time. Among the standout pieces is I Love by sculptor Marie Khouri—an installation that transforms the Arabic word Baheb (meaning “I love”) into a sublime sculpture. This work bridges traditional calligraphy with contemporary design, creating a dialogue between past and future. After being displayed in Vancouver and Cairo, this piece continues its journey in Paris, emphasizing cultural exchange and unity across the Arab world.

A Cultural and Historical Immersion

This exhibition is more than just an introduction to calligraphic art. It invites you to immerse yourself in the history and culture of the Arab world through an art form that has always held spiritual and aesthetic significance. You’ll discover how calligraphy served as a vector for beauty and communication in the Arab world—from the earliest Qur’anic texts to its role in everyday objects and even architecture. Additionally, the exhibition explores how Arabic calligraphy has adapted to new media, influencing graphic design and street art.

Why Book in Advance?

Booking your tickets in advance not only secures your spot for this exceptional event, but also ensures a smoother experience. The museum can attract a large number of visitors, and online reservations help you avoid long lines. You can also choose a time slot that best suits you, allowing you to fully enjoy the exhibition and workshops. Since guided tours and workshops have limited availability, early booking is the best way to guarantee your participation.

Practical Information

Museum entry is free for those under 26, making it an ideal outing for young adults and students interested in art, culture, and history. For adults, the entry fee is €10, which remains affordable for a cultural experience of this caliber.

The museum is open every day except Monday. Visit the IMA website to check opening hours and reserve your tickets. Guided tours for school and other groups are available from Tuesday to Sunday, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. The exhibition is accessible to everyone, including individuals with disabilities, making it an inclusive and welcoming event.

Conclusion

The exhibition “To Write or to Calligraph? The Sublimed Arabic Alphabet” is a must-see for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and admirers of Arab culture. With its exceptional works, hands-on workshops, and stunning setting at the IMA museum, it offers a rare opportunity to explore the evolution of Arabic calligraphy through the ages. Book now for an unforgettable experience and dive into the fascinating world of the sublimed Arabic alphabet

Come Discover the Art of Arabic Calligraphy in Groups!

Are you organizing an event for a group of more than 10 people?

Offer your group a unique immersive experience at the IMA. Dive into the fascinating world of Arabic calligraphy and participate in guided tours and interactive workshops. Book now for an unforgettable cultural outing!

Feel free to contact us at +33 148-740-510 for any requests.

Common questions

Where is the exhibition located?

The exhibition takes place at the museum of the Institut du Monde Arabe (IMA), in Paris, on level 5.

What does the exhibition highlight?

The exhibition showcases the art of Arabic calligraphy through historical objects, contemporary sculptures, and works inspired by new media and street art.