Rethinking the Phenomenological and Aesthetic Role of Calligraphy in Contemporary Architectural Ornamentation: The Dialectics of Form, Light, Material, and Spatial Identity

SHABNAM HOSSEINI¹ AMIR ALI NAVADEH SHAHLA²

1) Master of Architectural Technology
2) MASTER OF ARCHITECTURE

IOI Code : AACH-ABFGKF
Publication : 7th.International Conference & 8th.National Conference on Civil Engineering, Architecture, Art and Urban Design(8iccacs.ir)
Abstract :
    Abstract In contemporary architecture, ornamentation has evolved from a superficial, redundant layer into a tectonic, space-defining element. Within this context, the art of calligraphy, as one of the most authentic visual and cultural manifestations, has assumed a role far beyond mere textual writing. This study aims to comprehensively analyze the role and impact of calligraphy in contemporary architectural ornamentation, employing a descriptive-analytical methodology with a phenomenological approach. The central research question examines how calligraphy has transitioned from a two-dimensional, text-oriented art into a three-dimensional, structural, and functional element in spatial design, relying on material diversity, color theory, traditional tools, and literary themes. The findings indicate that through materiality (ranging from metal, concrete, and plaster to acrylic paints and manual execution with reed pens) and utilizing the richness of poetry and literature, calligraphy not only elevates the aesthetic qualities of space but also acts as an identity-bestowing factor, establishing a profound, phenomenological connection between the collective memory of the observer and the physical corpus of contemporary architecture.

Keywords : calligraphy architectural ornamentation materiality plasterwork acrylic paint reed pen (qalam) poetry and literature contemporary architecture