Ali Bagheri
Ali Bagheri Persian calligrapher specializing in Nastaliq calligraphy

Artist profile

Ali Bagheri

I am Ali Bagheri, a Persian calligrapher exploring the relationship between form, color, and meaning through Nastaliq calligraphy. Alongside creating calligraphic and calligraphy-painting works, I am interested in researching Iranian art history and the heritage of Persian calligraphy, and sharing this experience through teaching and writing.

Artist profile

Biography

The Beginning of My Journey in Calligraphy

My introduction to calligraphy began within my family. My father and my brother practiced calligraphy, and this close connection with the world of writing introduced me to the beauty of letters and the art of calligraphy from an early age.

When I started school and experienced writing for the first time, my interest in the beauty of letterforms and the harmony within written forms gradually developed. During my preschool years, I learned handwriting under the guidance of Ms. Dashti, and this early experience became the foundation for a more serious artistic journey.


My Journey in Learning Nastaliq Calligraphy

In 2013, I officially began attending classes at the Iranian Calligraphers Association and continued my professional path in calligraphy. Throughout this journey, I benefited from the teachings and experiences of Master Ali-Asghar Salmani and Master Ali Ganji, as well as private courses with Master Gholami and Master Fallah.

A significant part of my artistic practice has been shaped through the creation of classical Nastaliq works and through understanding the structure and principles of this traditional script.

For me, Nastaliq is not merely a set of technical rules; it is a language through which I experience beauty, tranquility, and a connection with the cultural heritage of Iran.


My Perspective on Calligraphy and Artistic Creation

In the early years of my artistic activity, my focus was mainly on creating classical Nastaliq works. Later, my interest in painting and exploring the possibilities of color and form led me toward calligraphy painting and the search for new relationships between writing, image, and visual expression.

For me, calligraphy is a way of preserving and experiencing the heritage of Iranian art. It is also a path toward moments of peace and reflection in the midst of the fast pace of contemporary life.

In my works, I try to share my personal experience of calmness and the joy of creation with the viewer, while remaining committed to artistic principles, composition, and the foundations of calligraphic structure.


Research, Writing, and Sharing Experience

My interest in the history of Iranian art and the lesser-known aspects of calligraphy encouraged me to pursue research and writing alongside my artistic practice.

For me, understanding the past is an essential part of understanding art. Therefore, I have explored subjects such as the history of calligraphy, educational approaches, artistic materials, and creative processes through articles and written studies.

I continue this path by preparing books and educational writings with the aim of sharing knowledge and creating a deeper connection with Persian calligraphy and Iranian artistic heritage.


Books and Written Works

The Story of Nastaliq

A book that explores the origins of Nastaliq calligraphy and follows its historical development from its beginnings to the present day.

Ali in the Forest of Letters

A children's story centered around introducing handwriting and creating a simple and creative connection between children and the world of letters.

Articles and Research Writings

A collection of articles and written works exploring various subjects related to art, calligraphy, and Iranian cultural heritage.


Calligraphy Education

I began teaching calligraphy in 2019 and consider education a way of sharing experience, knowledge, and passion for art.

In my approach to teaching, I do not try to impose my own artistic experience on students. Instead, I aim to create an environment where each student can discover and develop their own artistic path.

I believe the role of an instructor is to provide the necessary knowledge, technical foundations, and a supportive environment that allows students to explore their own creativity and relationship with art.

Artists

Selected artworks

Articles

Articles by the artist

Nastaliq instruction through the master–student tradition, with a student practicing calligraphy under a teacher’s guidance02
Calligraphy Education and Experience

From Master to Student: How Was Nastaliq Taught?

This article traces the historical development of Nastaliq instruction, from master–student relationships, practice and calligraphy treatises to the role of earlier masters’ works and print. The evidence suggests that Nastaliq was not taught through a fixed curriculum; skills were transmitted ...

September 2, 202615 min read
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Artists