Arabic Calligraphy and Public Space in Contemporary Contexts before and After 2011 Egyptian Revolution

Abstract

In 3122, the Egyptian society witnessed a strong shift in the aftermath of 25 th January Revolution. Major political, social, cultural and economic challenges have occurred together with other unprecedented overlaps in art scene. A remarkable change has dominated the public space of Egyptian cities; Mural paintings that implemented Arabic calligraphy were considered constant reminders for passers-by of the drastic changes the „Arab spring‟ brought to the region. In this regard, setting a comparative framework of the relationship between Arabic calligraphy and public space before and after 2011 Revolution is a necessity. Not only because a clear transformation in the freedom of art practice has emerged, but also to shed a light on the role Arabic Calligraphy has played in documenting different political and social discourses.