The art of beautiful handwriting is known as calligraphy. Calligraphy is a practical skill and a graphic science that developed gradually. Today, calligraphy fonts are more artistic than the average font, often using a script style to emulate the look of handwriting. Modern calligraphy commonly uses markers and synthetic paint, and spray paint is used for calligraphy on walls, signs and buildings.

Mallam Adam A. Modu is a renowned Yobe, Nigeria-based master artist in calligraphy. He has contributed to both private and public collections. In this interview Adam tells The Muslim Voice, Nigeria, about his love for calligraphy, work challenges and advice for students of knowledge.

MV: Who is Adam A. Modu?

Adam: I am Adam A. Modu, a prolific (English/Arabic) Calligraphy artist based in Yobe, Nigeria.

MV: When did you start calligraphy?

Adam: Well… I can brag about being self-taught; self-motivated and a goal-orientated individual.

I have been sketching ever since I could hold a pencil. But then I started calligraphy design in 2017, I do both English and Arabic Calligraphy, my calligraphy technique is always advancing because I never hinder myself to one style.

I take calligraphy too serious to the level that I continuously find myself designing and always bringing out new styles.

I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me in the nearest future.

MV: What inspired you to do Calligraphy?

Adam: I’ve always been very driven—even when I was little, I was very goal-oriented, so I don’t typically have issues staying focused. That said, I’m not sitting and plugging away on a project for eight hours on end. I am very good about taking breaks lol sometimes just a cat walk by being enough to clear my head and get back into work mode, and I also exercise a lot because my type of calligraphy requires a lot of strength. What I mean here is, to design Ayatul khursiyyu from start to end takes me not less than 20 days and not a single day off. That’s why I described my style to be distinct, genuine and breathtakingly incredible. I put up with pride in being simply the best.

MV: What sacrifices did you have to make in your life in order to progress in this art?

Adam: Well, the sacrifice is to give back to society. I want to In sha Allah acquaint not less than 50 people even though so far I’ve started with 6 and I’m processing to run online classes soon enough for those that aren’t close.