Light Upon Light

Abdelrahman Elshahed’s Light Upon Light (2023) is a newly-commissioned mixed-media light installation that demonstrates the ability of Arabic calligraphy to convey different meanings. With the artwork, Elshahed breaks free from the conventional constraints of Arabic text, which is typically read from right to left. He showcases its creative potential by presenting words in a way that means they can be read from all directions.

The installation illuminates the phrase ‘Light Upon Light’ in Arabic, inspired by Verse 35 in Surah An-Nur from the Holy Quran. Skillfully blending Arabic calligraphy with light and color, the artwork bridges the gap between language and art.