In Saudi Arabia, a groundbreaking initiative is underway to revolutionize digital calligraphy, merging traditional Arabic script with modern technology. The endeavor is led by Kaleam, a platform co-founded by Fahad Al-Rashed and Abdul Aziz Al-Sharikh, aimed at enhancing the use of calligraphy in computers through innovative Saudi-built technology that enables users to craft personalized fonts.
Adapting Arabic script to technology has been a longstanding challenge, dating back to the introduction of printing practices in the Arab world during the 18th century. While Arabic was integrated into digital systems in the 1980s, the beauty and intricacies of the script were often compromised to align with Latin-based font structures. This led to a need for simplification, with some designers resorting to detached letter forms to make Arabic compatible with digital platforms.
Al-Rashed, a co-founder of Kaleam, believes that with today’s advanced technology, there is no need to further simplify Arabic script. Instead, he advocates for developing new technology that preserves the script’s authentic essence and aesthetic appeal. This vision drove the creation of Kaleam, a Saudi startup dedicated to revolutionizing the use of Arabic calligraphy in digital spaces.
Kaleam’s innovative technology mimics the fluid hand movements of professional calligraphers, allowing users to create digital calligraphy art pieces with precision and authenticity. The platform enables users to manipulate text seamlessly, producing results that mirror manual calligraphy but in a faster and more efficient manner.
Al-Rashed’s inspiration for Kaleam stemmed from the story of Stanford professor Donald Knuth, a pioneer in font design who developed a typesetting system to enhance the quality of digital fonts. Motivated by the lack of specialized technology for Arabic calligraphy, Al-Rashed pursued degrees in computer science, software engineering, and artificial intelligence, culminating in the foundation of Kaleam.
Kaleam’s mission is to elevate Arabic calligraphy to a new level by creating technology tailored specifically for the script, rather than adapting it to existing systems. Targeting artists, design studios, and advertising firms, the platform offers a subscription-based service accessible online, empowering users to effortlessly create digital calligraphy pieces, logos, and more.
With a focus on user convenience, Kaleam eliminates the need for complex font design processes by offering ready-to-use Arabic handwriting fonts. The platform supports various design formats and programs, making it versatile for different applications, including 3D and laser printing. Kaleam currently features the Thuluth font and plans to introduce additional styles like Naskh and Diwani.
Despite initial challenges and a lack of public awareness, Kaleam’s potential extends beyond Saudi Arabia, with plans to expand globally. The platform’s innovative approach to Arabic calligraphy technology has garnered interest from various countries, signaling a promising future for digital calligraphy integration.
As the Year of Arabic Calligraphy unfolds, initiatives like Kaleam are at the forefront of preserving and advancing this cherished art form through cutting-edge technology. By bridging tradition with innovation, Kaleam paves the way for a new era of digital calligraphy, redefining the landscape of Arabic script in the digital age.
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