Artist Statement
I am Faheem Jackson, an Arabic calligrapher, graphic designer, and painter based in Cape Town, South Africa. Born in 1982 in the historic Bo-Kaap, I draw inspiration from the area’s deep connections to the earliest Muslim and enslaved communities under Dutch colonial rule. My work is centered on the Janubi script, a unique style I developed inspired by early Cape Islamic manuscripts. Combining Arabic calligraphy with Janubi illumination and Isibheqhe elements, I create pieces using acrylic inks, paints, and pigments on carefully prepared surfaces. Through my practice, I honor the contributions of Cape Muslims and seek to preserve their rich cultural heritage.
My calligraphy journey began in 2002 with training in Ottoman scripts like Ruq’ah and Diwani, later expanding to Naskh, Thuluth, and Maghribi styles. In 2022, I earned an Ijazah from Ustadh Shahryanshah Sirajuddin through the Deen Arts Foundation, linking my work to centuries of Islamic calligraphic tradition. A pivotal moment came in 2003 when I assisted in restoring an 18th-century Quran by Tuan Guru Imam Abdullah, sparking my interest in developing the Janubi script. Guided by the legacy of pioneering scholars such as Sh Yusuf Al-Makassari, Tuan Guru, and Imam Rajab, I explore what these figures might have created with freedom and resources.
My process combines traditional techniques with innovation. I work with various inks, blending them with paints and pigments to achieve the desired consistency, and prepare surfaces like ahar paper, wood, and boards to enhance the fluidity of ink. I draw inspiration from the artistry found in gravestones and manuscripts, reinterpreting these designs in my own style. While I’ve created works in traditional scripts, my focus on Janubi began during the COVID-19 pandemic, with its debut at the Mashurah Arts show in 2021. Since then, Janubi has grown in recognition, leading to commissions and workshops that share this uniquely South African calligraphic style.
At the heart of my work is the intent to convey the clarity and beauty of the written word, particularly Quranic verses and Islamic teachings. The Janubi script’s bold forms and geometric structures reflect a connection to heritage while engaging modern audiences. Inspired by the sacred Qalam, celebrated in Islam and the Quran, my art serves as a bridge to the past, inviting viewers to reflect on the history and contributions of Cape Muslims. My work aspires to honor their legacy while sparking curiosity and appreciation for their enduring cultural impact.
