Rumi’s Art Exhibition: A Vibrant Cultural Bridge Connecting Iran and Turkey

An exciting new art exhibition in Ankara, Turkey, brings to life the poetic genius of Persian poet and mystic Molana Jalal ad-Din Rumi through a stunning collection of calligraphy, gilding, and miniature painting. Inaugurated at the Ankara Music and Fine Arts University, this showcase highlights the rich cultural heritage shared between Iran and Turkey.

The opening ceremony, held on a Monday, saw the presence of notable figures including Seyyed Qassem Nazemi, the Cultural Attaché of Iran in Turkey, Mohammad Hossein Shojai, Deputy Ambassador of Iran in Turkey, and Barış Demirci, Vice Rector of Ankara Music and Fine Arts University. Other attendees included Amin Mokhtari, Head of the Art section of Jahad-e Daneshgahi, and Hamid Reza Jamshidi, the event’s supervisor and artistic consultant, as reported by IRNA.

This art exhibition is organized by Iran’s Academic Center for Education, Culture, and Research, known as Jahad-e Daneshgahi, in collaboration with the Ankara University of Music and Fine Arts. It features an impressive collection of 40 exceptional pieces created by 16 distinguished calligraphers and talented artists specializing in illumination and miniature painting.

All artworks were developed at the specialized short-term training center of Jahad-e Daneshgahi, showcasing the high level of skill and dedication among the artists involved.

During his speech at the ceremony, Nazemi highlighted the significance of cultural connections between Iran and Turkey. He remarked, “One of the key and influential areas for enhancing these relations is art, where both countries share rich commonalities, particularly in disciplines such as calligraphy, illumination, miniature painting, and other traditional arts.”

In his address, Mokhtari stated, “This institution has a special focus on promoting Iranian-Islamic culture and art on an international scale. One of the primary priorities of Jahad-e Daneshgahi in the arts sector is to support the development of cultural and artistic economies and create bilateral pathways for the flourishing of this vital domain.”

He further emphasized, “This exhibition presents a valuable opportunity to showcase the art of Iranian calligraphy and to introduce the immortal verses of Rumi, the great Iranian poet and mystic, to the world. This event can serve as a pivotal point for enhancing cultural and artistic exchanges between Iran and Turkey, laying the groundwork for further collaborations in the cultural and artistic arenas between the two countries.”

Barış Demirci also expressed the university’s commitment to artistic education, stating, “One of the primary goals of Ankara Music and Fine Arts University is to provide academic training for artists. In this regard, the organization of events such as the current exhibition is considered a complementary program and priority within this path.”

Demirci extended his gratitude to the Iranian artists, saying, “I thank you for selecting this university as the venue for this calligraphy exhibition of Rumi’s works, providing us the opportunity to witness these invaluable pieces.”

Visitors to the exhibition will have the chance to explore the depth of Persian artistry through 40 remarkable calligraphic works, created under the guidance of renowned artist Hamid Reza Jamshidi over a span of more than six months. Each piece showcases meticulous craftsmanship and dedication.

To enhance the exhibition atmosphere, a unique fragrance named “Rumi” has been created, filling the space with calming and subtle scents that reflect the spiritual essence and mystique inherent in Rumi’s poetry.

Additionally, selected verses from Rumi’s mystical poetry are being recited in both Persian and Turkish, accompanied by soothing music. This combination invites attendees on a profound spiritual and introspective journey into the poet’s deep thoughts and teachings.

Molana Jalal ad-Din Rumi, who lived from 1207 to 1273, is celebrated worldwide as one of the most influential poets. His works have been translated into numerous languages, continuing to inspire readers across the globe. Rumi’s spiritual teachings and poetry have left a significant imprint on the entire Islamic world.

Born in present-day Afghanistan, Rumi later migrated to Konya, Turkey, where he spent most of his life and composed the majority of his works. This city transformed into a vibrant center of Sufism, an Islamic mystical tradition, and became a hub of intellectual and artistic activity.

Following Rumi’s death, his followers established the Mevlevi Order, also known as the Whirling Dervishes, which remains active in Konya today. This mystical order of Islam continues to uphold Rumi’s teachings and practices, preserving his legacy for future generations.

This exhibition not only showcases the artistic talents of Iranian artists but also serves as a bridge for cultural exchange, promoting a deeper understanding and appreciation of Rumi’s timeless works.