CALLICER

The CALLICER is inspired by the Mo-aqqeli ceramic technique which is a unique Persian ornament. Mo-aqqeli (or sometimes spelt Mo-aqeli) is a traditional Iranian brickwork technique that is renowned for its intricate geometric patterns and artistic use of bricks in architectural structures. This technique is a combination of brickwork and tiling, often used in the construction of mosques, madrasas, and other monumental Islamic architecture in Iran. It reflects a high level of craftsmanship, blending both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Mo-aqqeli typically features intricate geometric designs that often include stars, polygons, and repetitive patterns. These designs were deeply influenced by Islamic art, which avoided figurative representations and instead focused on abstract, geometrical forms. The basic material used in Mo-aqqeli is brick, often in combination with tiles of different colours, especially turquoise, blue, or white. The bricks are meticulously placed to create raised or recessed patterns.

Mo-aqqeli is most commonly seen in the facades, domes, and minarets of Islamic Architecture, where it serves both decorative and structural purposes. The design creates a visually stunning effect, particularly when light hits the surface, casting shadows and accentuating the brick patterns. This technique became especially popular during the Seljuk and Safavid periods when Persian architecture flourished. It can be seen in some of the most famous historical structures in Iran, like the Jameh Mosque of Isfahan, where Mo-aqqeli was used to create a mesmerising effect on the walls and ceilings. Mo-aqqeli brickwork is a testament to the high degree of artistry in Persian architecture and continues to be admired for its precision and beauty. It reflects the interplay between structural needs and aesthetic design in Iranian architecture.

In CALLICER we wanted to re-think the combination of Mo-aggeli aesthetics and the forms generated by the aesthetics of Nasta'liq. Nasta'liq is one of the most prominent styles of Persian calligraphy, known for its elegance, fluidity, and aesthetic beauty. It is widely regarded as the most visually appealing form of Persian script and has been a major part of Persian art and culture for centuries. Nasta'liq originated in Persia during the 14th century, and it became the predominant style of Persian script in poetry and literature during the Timurid and Safavid eras. The word Nasta'liq is a combination of two other Persian script styles: Naskh and Ta'liq. The blending of these two created the Nasta'liq style.

CALLICER combine the aestetics of these two forms of Persian art and architecture. CALLICER is a 2.6x1.0 meter piece, made of a 5x13 grid of 0.2x0.2 firooze tiles and is currently installed in AKAD Lab in Esfahan. The piece was made in 2008. The idea was initiated through discussions with Ammar Haghighi who is a well-tasted artist. Ammer collaborated with us on several projects from 2007 to 2010.