This study aims to examine the impact of digital media on the redefinition of aesthetic criteria in Arabic calligraphy. Focusing on the works of contemporary artist el Seed and the expansion of the medium's applications between 2010 and 2020, the research explores how digitalization—while preserving the authenticity of this traditional art—has enabled the emergence of a new visual language that expands both the aesthetic and functional boundaries of Arabic calligraphy in contemporary contexts. Employing a descriptive-analytical methodology and based on library resources and comparative analysis of el Seed’s key works, the findings reveal that digital media—through advanced design software (such as Adobe Illustrator and Procreate), augmented reality (AR), and animation—not only facilitate broader access to Arabic calligraphy but also revolutionize its aesthetic language by introducing hybrid, multisensory forms. Traditional principles such as stasis, symmetry, and repetition are increasingly being replaced by characteristics like dynamism, audience interactivity, and integration with multimedia elements such as sound, motion, and 3D spatial design. This transformation is embodied in el Seed’s synthesis of tradition and innovation: the use of digital stamps alongside traditional reed pens, interactive color schemes driven by algorithmic inputs, and the creation of virtual wall murals contribute to a redefinition of public space. Moreover, the application of Arabic calligraphy has extended into fields such as graphic design, cultural branding, advertising, and digital education. These developments have enhanced the role of calligraphy within public art and intercultural communication, fostering global dialogue and engaging diverse audiences. The results of this research suggest that digitalization should not be seen as a threat to Arabic calligraphy; rather, it offers an opportunity to uncover its latent potential and foster its evolution. However, this transformation necessitates a critical reevaluation of Islamic aesthetic frameworks and a broader interdisciplinary approach to more fully understand the complex interplay between tradition, technology, and cultural identity. Ultimately, this study positions el Seed as a pioneering figure who transcends the dichotomy of tradition and modernity, offering an inspiring model for a new generation of artists creatively merging heritage with futurity.
Moghimnejad Hosseini S M, Moghimnejad Hosseini S M. Redefining Aesthetics and Expanding the Applications of Arabic Calligraphy in the Digital Realm: An Analysis of el Seed’s Works (2010–2020). کیمیای هنر 2025; 14 (55) :99-116 URL: http://kimiahonar.ir/article-1-2408-en.html