Research
Hand written type on Abaya
Through observations regarding the deterioration of language, began an attempt to discover ways by which people are encouraged to interact with the Arabic language. It was crucial to create lived experiences beyond inked letters on paper, that still resonates with people.
At this day and age, self expression is becoming a tool for empowerment that many people are seeking. One of the many ways of doing so is through fashion. In the modern world of social media fashion has been utilized as a powerful tool to make statements, and for many people is a fun way to express themselves freely. Similarly, Arabic is a very descriptive language that also facilitates self expression through its literacy and profound vocabulary.
This research aims to use the Arabic language and letterforms, in combination with fashion garments as a medium, to initiate thoughts about the language.
Possible Abaya designs
Top: Example of old Kufic script. Bottom: Lettering iterations based on old Kufic Script
Kufic is one of the many old Arabic Scripts, used in the past to transcribe the Quran, and like other types of script, as architectural decoration. It is known for its bulky and geometric look. These characteristics where taken into account and used as the foundation for developing the hand lettering on which this research is based.
There’s an attempt to emphasize on the contrast between the thick and thin strokes, and the ascender and descender. This juxtaposition was further developed, in addition to the geometric nature, to create morphing letterforms.
Using descenders to create a pattern when fabric is folded in a certain way
Block printing is used as part of the production process to revive this tradition that used to exist in the region in the past.