The Persian Calligraphy and Illumination School in Paris, opened in 2002 by Towhidi Tabari, serves as a center for teaching traditional techniques within France. Born in 1964 in Babol, Iran, Tabari maintains a career encompassing painting, graphic design, and calligraphy, with a specialization in the Nasta`liq and Shekasteh scripts that has reached global audiences.
Early Development and Training
Tabari began his formal instruction in calligraphy at age 14 in Babol under Mohammad Zaman Ferasat and Mehdi Fallah Moghadam. At 19, he relocated to Tehran to enroll at the Society of Iranian Calligraphists. Under the guidance of masters Gholam Hossein Amirkhani and Yadollah Kaboli Khansari, he achieved the rank of Master of Calligraphy. His early professional years included six years as chief calligrapher and designer at the Iran Aircraft Industries and teaching positions at the Jahad Daneshgahi and Osweh Highschool.
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A year-long residency at the Cité internationale des arts in Paris in 2003 marked a shift in Tabari's creative methodology. Exposure to modern Western art prompted the integration of abstract forms with traditional Persian aesthetics. This period signaled a move toward a more synthesis-heavy approach, distinguishing his subsequent output from his initial strictly classical training.
Exhibitions and Graphic Design
His exhibition record began officially in 1986. Over the decades, he has participated in over 100 collective displays and more than 50 solo shows across Asia, Europe, and the Americas, including events at the François Mitterrand National Library and the National Archives of Paris. Parallel to his fine art, he has produced graphic material, including over 50 posters, logos, and book covers, such as the identity for the Khanevade Sabz magazine and materials for the Rumi and Hafez festivals.
Institutional Recognition and Awards
Tabari holds memberships in the Society of Iranian Calligraphists, the International Association of Art, La Maison des Artistes de France, and the Plastic Arts Center of the Ministry of Culture of Iran. His professional contributions have been recognized with numerous honors, including the 2004 Caillebotte Award in Yerres, a medal from the Lebanon Fine Arts University, and a letter of appreciation from French President Jacques Chirac.
Fast facts
- Born: 1964, Babol, Iran
- Primary Scripts: Nasta`liq and Shekasteh
- Paris School Founded: 2002
- Professional Membership: Society of Iranian Calligraphists
- Graphic Design Portfolio: Over 50 logos and posters
- Award: Caillebotte Award, 2004
Questions readers ask
What is Towhidi Tabari's primary artistic specialty?
He is a master of the Nasta`liq and Shekasteh calligraphic styles and an instructor of illumination.
Where is his calligraphy school located?
The Persian Calligraphy and Illumination School is located in Paris, France.
