TEHRAN – The celebrated Iranian calligrapher Gholamhossein Amirkhani believes that Persian calligraphy is flourishing and enjoys a good status in the art world.

Calligraphy would thrive and new talent could be nurtured in this country if there were greater sponsorship by Iranian people and the establishment of teaching programs in this field of fine art, he told Mehr News Agency on Tuesday.
“Gifted artists are usually recognized at festivals. However it would be much better if there were an organization or an association dedicated to identifying and encouraging exceptional talent. At the present time, there are many gifted calligraphists who are not receiving proper recognition and it is necessary that art officials help them,” he stated.
Amirkhani, who is also head of Iran’s Calligraphy Association, said that the organization does not possess the means of identifying these talented artists, but it can act as a good center for the teaching of the art of calligraphy.
He went on to say that commissioned works displayed at festivals represent a stage in the success of a calligraphist and added, “Commissioned works serve a purpose, since they are involved in the circle of action and growth. However, free works must also be revived and promoted.”
Amirkhani says that he has not held a solo exhibit in Iran since 1979 as his schedule is filled by his activities at the calligraphy association and his work as a jury member at festivals.
Amirkhani displays a collection of his works once a year at Tehran’s Quran International Exhibition during the month of Ramadan