A Genealogical Study of Creativity in Calligraphy: Baba Shah Isfahani’s Perspective

Introduction: Baba Shah Isfahani, in his most comprehensive work “Adab al-Mashq”, considers the ultimate goal of a calligrapher to achieve purity and dignity in calligraphic works. In his view, what liberates the calligrapher from repetitive exercises and imitative copying of the masters’ lines is the imaginary practice. This research, with an introspective approach, meaning an inward look at details and finding the power of creative combination, has analyzed this subject. The aim is to address the issue of the lack of enthusiasm for creativity in calligraphy, in order to reject mere copying and unreflective repetition of the works of the ancients, and to consider a path for innovation and creative creation in calligraphy. The main question is: “What does the element of creativity in calligraphy, according to Baba Shah Isfahani, encompass?”Research Method: This study, written in a descriptive-analytical style, is qualitative. The collection of relevant data has also been conducted through library research.Findings: The research shows that the art of calligraphy draws on creativity in its instructions and has gradually manifested in the styles and skills of masters over time. The creativity-centered instructions of calligraphers have manifested in their written texts. Preventing the cultivation of imitators of calligraphy techniques is observed in these texts.Conclusion: By examining Baba Shah Isfahani’s views on creativity and the rules and teachings of calligraphy, especially the writing style and composition, the researcher demonstrates that, by expanding Baba Shah Isfahani’s educational method, the element of creativity can be emphasized and rethought in traditional calligraphy. Baba Shah Isfahani’s method of nurturing creativity begins with the practice of imaginary practices and manifests in diverse, creative forms.

کلیدواژه ها:

calligraphy ، creativity ، Adab al-Mashq of Baba Shah Isfahani ، Imaginary Practice