Abdulaziz Al-Rashedi, a Saudi calligrapher and arts instructor, developed his passion for writing in Madinah during the Eighties. Inspired by his father and supported by mentor Ahmad Dia, Al-Rashedi faced societal skepticism about art as a career. Despite these challenges, he honed his skills, initially drawing from the work of Iraqi calligrapher Hashem Al-Baghdadi. With the rise of social media, Al-Rashedi gained global recognition for his creation of “3punt,” an innovative form of Arabic calligraphy.
In the traditional calligraphy system, one pen was used, leading to bulky and rigid designs. However, Al-Rashedi’s “3punt” method introduced three pens, allowing for thinner, more flowing script. His technique incorporates 55 subtypes of writing, which redefined Arabic calligraphy’s aesthetics. This new form broke free from the constraints of conventional styles, giving it a lighter, more elegant expression. Al-Rashedi believes that Arabic calligraphy, unlike other scripts, allows multiple letters to connect fluidly, creating a unique beauty and expressiveness.
Al-Rashedi is convinced that Arabic calligraphy’s lasting allure lies in its connection to the divine. He often reflects on how the curves of Arabic letters invoke a sense of holiness, stemming from their deep ties to Islamic texts. Through his work, Al-Rashedi continues to push the boundaries of calligraphy, showing that innovation and creativity have a place in this ancient art form.
In 2022, Al-Rashedi lost his mentor Ahmad Dia, who passed away during the COVID pandemic. This loss deeply affected Al-Rashedi, who described it as a dimming of the spiritual light that had guided him. Despite this, he continues to share his craft globally through social media and exhibitions, remaining a powerful voice in the calligraphy world.
Through perseverance, support from his family and mentors, and a relentless commitment to his craft, Al-Rashedi has become a key figure in the ongoing evolution of Arabic calligraphy. His journey from a young boy in Madinah to an internationally recognized artist is a testament to the enduring power of art as both a personal expression and a cultural heritage.