Ruyesh (Growth)

An Iranian master calligrapher of the nasta'liq script, Mohammad Ehsaey has penned countless manuscripts of the Qur'an, anthologies by Iran's most celebrated poets, and album pages. He is also known for his calligraphic compositions called naqqashi-khatt, which are often large-scale compositions in oil on canvas but sometimes take the form of calligraphic sculpture. Ruyesh, which takes its title from the Persian word meaning "evolution," alludes to an earlier body of work by the artist characterized by its density, symmetry, balance, and definition of form. This composition, in contrast, is irregular, consisting of large interwoven letters in nasta'liq script in bright, grassy green with soft black outlines on a cloudy black ground. According to the artist, "the letters are recognizable but not poetic verses. They are not meant to be read but appreciated for their aesthetic attributes." Here, form supersedes content, and the shapes of the letters and their placement within the composition are given prominence. The circle is irregular and asymmetrical, and there are fewer, more loosely woven letters. Perhaps an expression of the artist's unease with the world around him, Ruyesh nonetheless presents a glimmer of hope, conveyed through the liveliness and the vibrant green hue of the letters.