About Najm AL-Tameemi
Biography
Najm Al-Tameemi is a master calligrapher with over 35 years of experience in the art of Arabic calligraphy. He honed his skills by studying various scripts under a diverse group of teachers in his home country, Iraq. Najm began showcasing his work in galleries across the country and later established a successful business specializing in commissioned writing and artistic projects.
In 2015, Najm immigrated to Edmonton, a city he has come to love and appreciate, even with its cold winters! Shortly after his arrival, he volunteered at the Nina Haggerty Centre for the Arts. This connection led to an invitation to lecture at the University of Alberta. Since then, he has taught at the University of Calgary, Concordia University, several senior centers, Islamic schools, and community art centers.
I started teaching Arabic calligraphy in 2014. I developed myself by using many new technical methods in teaching this authentic art. I made sure that the student learns this calligraphy easily and quickly. And without complications.
Artistic Journey
Early Years
Najm began his journey studying traditional scripts under the guidance of master calligrapher Hassan Al-Masri. These formative years established his strong foundation in classical styles including Thuluth, Naskh, and Diwani.
Exploration Period
During his travels to Syria and Canada, Najm began experimenting with contemporary styles of calligraphy, incorporating elements of abstract expressionism and minimalism into his work.
Current Practice
Today, Najm's work is characterized by a harmonious blend of traditional precision and contemporary expression. His pieces often explore themes of cultural identity, spirituality, and the poetic dimensions of language.
Professional Accomplishments
Exhibitions
- Solo Exhibition, British Museum, London (2023)
- "Contemporary Calligraphy", MoMA, New York (2022)
- "Traditions Reimagined", Louvre Abu Dhabi (2021)
- "Scripts & Symbols", Victoria and Albert Museum, London (2019)
- "Calligraphic Expressions", Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia (2018)
Awards & Recognition
- International Calligraphy Award, Dubai (2023)
- Master Calligrapher Recognition, Royal Society of Arts (2021)
- Excellence in Traditional Arts, Cultural Heritage Foundation (2020)
- Artist of the Year, Middle Eastern Arts Council (2018)
- Innovation in Calligraphy, World Calligraphy Biennale (2016)
Teaching & Publications
Educational Contributions
Najm is dedicated to preserving and advancing the art of calligraphy through education. He regularly conducts workshops at universities, museums, and cultural institutions worldwide.
His book, "The Poetics of Script: A Contemporary Approach to Traditional Calligraphy" (2020), has become a standard text for students of the art form, bridging historical techniques with modern applications.
As a visiting professor at the Royal College of Art in London, Najm mentors emerging artists and contributes to academic discourse on the evolution of calligraphic arts in the 21st century.