At just 15 years old, Reman Assere has achieved something remarkable – becoming Saudi Arabia’s youngest certified Arabic calligraphy instructor at the age of 11. Her journey into the world of calligraphy began in fifth grade when a school activity sparked her interest in this traditional art form. Starting with basic exercises, Assere’s dedication and continuous practice, supplemented by online platforms like YouTube, allowed her to refine her skills over the years.
Arabic calligraphy is renowned for its variety of styles, including Kufic, Naskh, Thuluth, Diwani, and Ruq’ah, each with distinct techniques and characters. Assere began her training in Kufic calligraphy, one of the oldest and most influential styles, eventually gaining certification and becoming a registered member of the Ministry of Culture’s official platform, Al-Khattat.
Assere’s commitment to her craft has set her apart in the world of calligraphy. Despite the challenges posed by a lack of local calligraphy institutes in her hometown of Abha, she sought out online courses and traveled to other cities to continue her education. Her dedication paid off with numerous awards, including first place in the 2023 Cultural Skills Competition and the Ministry of Education’s National Olympiad for Arabic Calligraphy.
Today, Assere is proficient not only in Kufic calligraphy but also in teaching it. Her expertise is expanding as she takes on the Diwani style, another form of Arabic calligraphy. She has led courses at the Holy Mosque Library in Makkah and organized workshops in schools, training students of all ages in the art of Arabic calligraphy. Her teaching success is evident as her students compete in national calligraphy competitions.
Assere credits much of her progress to the guidance of Shurooq Al-Harbi and the ongoing support of Prof. Siraj Al-Omari. Despite the rise of digital technology, Assere is confident that the beauty and significance of Arabic calligraphy will continue to thrive. She describes it as a visual art that not only embodies the Arabic language but also conveys emotions and thoughts through its graceful, fluid lines.
“The beauty of Arabic calligraphy extends beyond writing; it is a visual art that enhances both artworks and decorations,” Assere explained. “Over time, it has become a cultural symbol that embodies Arab and Islamic identity.”
Assere’s work is a testament to the enduring power of traditional arts in a modern world, and her contributions continue to inspire the next generation of Arabic calligraphers.