At Buro247 Middle East, we are committed to showcasing and celebrating the extraordinary talent in the Arab world. With our column, #BuroSpotlights, we bring you stories of pioneering artists, innovative designers, tech trailblazers, cinematic visionaries, sports stars, and more.
This week, #BuroSpotlights Lebanese Illustrator Diaa Allam.
Meet Diaa Allam, the UAE-based artist who is reshaping how we experience Arabic calligraphy. More than just beautiful script, his work invites viewers to see the language in three dimensions, on canvas, and even in motion. With a background in urban planning and landscape architecture, Diaa brings a unique spatial awareness to his craft that elevates each piece beyond typical calligraphy.
His signature style—known as “Layers”—uses acrylic on canvas to build stunning 3D calligraphy artworks that speak not only to the eye but also to values like excellence, kindness, and growth. But he doesn’t stop there. Allam pushes the boundaries by embracing diverse mediums and technologies, connecting traditional Arabic script with contemporary art and global audiences.
From murals across cities worldwide to live performances that turn calligraphy into a dynamic spectacle, his work is a celebration of culture and creativity. He translates the rich heritage of Arabic lettering into fresh forms that resonate with today’s art lovers while staying deeply rooted in history. This is calligraphy that demands attention, not just for its beauty but for its message and its innovation.
Recently, Allam has been experimenting with AI, stretching his imagination to incorporate his signature Arabic calligraphy into unusual settings. Think robots made of calligraphy, futuristic architecture decked with calligraphy, and more.
Diaa Allam’s art is a journey through space, culture, and values, crafted by an artist who sees the potential of Arabic calligraphy far beyond the page. Whether on canvas, walls or through motion, his work challenges the way we think about language and art in the UAE and beyond.
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