The Main Arabic Calligraphy Styles:
.
KUFIC STYLE) This is the most ancient style whose most representative characteristics are its geometric forms. Curves become straight with very defined angles. Examples of this style are frequently found in architectural applications(framing windows, doors, mosaics, tiles, etc.)
.
NASKH STYLE) This is the most well known style and most basic. It is a cursive style taken from ancient pre-Islamic script. It is used to write manuscripts quickly, which is why it is a very simple style, cursive, and easy to write. It is used today in the printing industry, as well as on keyboards.
.
RUQ'AH STYLE) This is taken from the Naskh style, and is more basic and commonly used. It is the most popular style for daily use in the Maghreb or Arab west. It requires less space to write than Naskh. It is also more condensed and its forms tend to overlap.
.
THULUTH STYLE) This was also taken form Naskh, but unlike the Ruq'ah style, it is a style designed for ornamentation, so it is a more beautiful and harmonious script. The letters are made longer or shorter according to the amount of space used on the support,. One of the characteristics is that the white space between the long part of the letter that goes up or ascenders is filled with unnecessary symbols or simply with ornamentation to create harmonious work.
.
DIWANI STYLE) This style was invented by the calligrapher Husam Runi and is more baroque and ornamental than the Thuluth style. The horizontal lines are lengthened even more and the space between the letters is reduce to create a contrasting interplay of letters between condensed and extended forms. The most natural way to write in this style is to not remove the pen from the paper, inasmuch as possible, to create without a pause a gestural effect in the writing.