Synthesis of Calligraphy and Music in the Work of Bahman Panahi

Abstract

The paper looks into to the work of the modern Iranian calligrapher and artist Bahman Panahi. On the example of his works, one can see the dynamism of the art of calligraphy. This type of Muslim art continues to develop actively and, in combination with other types, such as ornament, music or graffiti, gives rise to new interesting directions. In the work of Bahman Panahi, calligraphy is so naturally combined with music that the artist himself refers his works to the genre of musicalligraphy. “Musicalligraphy” is a term that the artist proposed to refer to his work while studying at the Sorbonne. The activity of Bahman Panahi is, on the one hand, respect for traditions: the artist conducts master classes in the art of calligraphy and creates works using the classical techniques of this art form, and on the other hand, it is an author's view, a synthesis of music and calligraphy, which generates original works. The creative path of the artist, his creations and their theoretical understanding is a vivid example of the combination of tradition and innovation in contemporary art.