The Importance of Persian and Arabic Typography
For centuries, Persian calligraphy has played a fundamental role in Iranian art and visual culture. The intricacy of Persian script, shaped by master calligraphers over generations, has influenced artistic expression in manuscripts, architecture, and visual design. However, the introduction of Western printing technologies in Iran brought substantial transformations to Persian typography. The shift from handwritten calligraphy to mechanical typesetting necessitated adaptations that often compromised the fluidity and elegance of traditional letterforms.
»With the advent of movable type printing in Iran, the detailed craftsmanship of Persian calligraphy gave way to more simplified forms that aligned with printing technology. Over time, this led to a departure from the script’s original aesthetic integrity«
Objectives of Tehran Type Week
Tehran Type Week was founded to address the scarcity of comprehensive and credible educational resources in the field of Persian typography. The event creates an opportunity to document, share, and exchange knowledge, providing reliable references for scholars, designers, and industry professionals.
By bringing together experts in Persian and Arabic typography, the event fosters dialogue on historical, contemporary, and future trends. The event emphasizes the need for typefaces that respect the integrity of Persian and Arabic scripts while adapting to modern digital environments.
»For centuries, Persian calligraphy has played a central role in Iranian visual culture. However, with the advent of Western printing technologies, the adaptation of Persian letters to modern type systems has significantly altered their traditional forms«
The Exhibition: A Comparative Study of Persian and Arabic Typefaces
One of the core components of Tehran Type Week is its annual exhibition, which highlights the work of Iranian and Arabic type designers. This exhibition is not only a showcase of technical and artistic achievements but also an opportunity to explore how culture and language shape typography.
»By placing Persian and Arabic typefaces side by side, we aim to foster a comparative study that will help designers gain a deeper understanding of how script traditions influence form and readability.«
This year, we are extending an invitation for contributions of Arabic typefaces from the past five years to be displayed as part of this exhibition. By bringing these works into the same space, we hope to promote discussions that enhance mutual understanding and appreciation of Persian and Arabic typography.
Panels, Discussions, and Key Topics
Tehran Type Week features panel discussions, lectures, and workshops led by prominent figures in the field. The event covers a wide range of topics. The event also provides a networking platform for Persian and Arabic type designers to engage with font users, publishers, and researchers. These interactions are essential in shaping the future direction of typography in the region.
Recognizing Excellence in Persian Type Design
A highlight of Tehran Type Week is its awards program, which celebrates outstanding contributions to Persian typography. The 2024 exhibition featured a competitive selection of works by Persian type designers, with notable recognitions in the experimental category awarded to Karim Shaheen, Javid Safdari, and Amir Dehghanzadeh. Additional honorable mentions were given to Sobhan Shafiei, Karim Shaheen, and Hossein Badozareh.
»The presence of esteemed figures such as Master Seyed Mohammad Ehsai underscores the importance of this event. His visit, alongside the Iranian Graphic Designers Guild’s Board of Directors, highlights the growing recognition of Persian typography in contemporary visual identity.«
As the only active type design event in Iran, Tehran Type Week is committed to advancing the study, development, and appreciation of Persian and Arabic typography. The event not only seeks to honor the rich history of Persian calligraphy but also to explore how typography can adapt to modern communication needs without losing its cultural essence.
