Upcoming Events
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"You possess all the qualities that the finest people possess. I was truly amazed by the level of artistry and the beauty of the works on display. I wish you all the very best in your future endeavours."
– Fahim Sarwari
On Sunday 7 June 2026, The Filigree of the Pen exhibition was presented at Mernda Village Community Activity Centre, bringing together contemporary Persian calligraphy, poetry, and Afghan miniature art in a shared cultural experience.
The exhibition featured 25 original calligraphic works by Melbourne-based artist Musa Zakizada, inspired by contemporary poets from Afghanistan and Tajikistan. Visitors also enjoyed a selection of miniature artworks created by students of Afghan miniature artist Khalil Azhar.
Throughout the afternoon, community members engaged with the artworks, explored the relationship between poetry and visual expression, and shared reflections on the importance of preserving cultural heritage through the arts.
Feedback from visitors highlighted both the artistic quality of the exhibition and the significance of creating opportunities for cultural exchange and community connection.
The Filigree of the Pen was proudly supported by the City of Whittlesea Community Grants Program.
Media for Multicultural Australia thanks all visitors, participating artists, volunteers, and supporters who contributed to the success of this event.
"Wishing continued success to the dear artists. We greatly enjoyed the artistic presentation and the selection of beautiful poetry. Thank you for your efforts in keeping authentic and traditional art alive. We wish you lasting success and prosperity."
– Shiva Kia, Melbourne, 7 June 2026
The Filigree of the Pen Brings Poetry and Calligraphy to Mernda
Sharing the Art of Persian Calligraphy
As part of Connected Libraries' cultural learning program, Musa Zakizada presented two public workshops introducing the art of Persian calligraphy to the wider community. Through demonstrations, storytelling and practical exercises, participants discovered the history, aesthetics and expressive qualities of the Nastaliq script while gaining hands-on experience with traditional calligraphy tools. The workshops encouraged creativity, cross-cultural understanding and appreciation for a living artistic heritage.
Successful Launch Event of The Filigree of the Pen in Melbourne
Melbourne, 4 April 2026 — The introductory event for The Filigree of the Pen, a contemporary Persian calligraphy project by artist Musa Zakizada, was successfully held in Melbourne, bringing together members of the Afghan and broader multicultural community.
The event marked an important milestone in the development of the project, presenting a curated selection of original calligraphic works inspired by contemporary Persian poetry. The artworks, created using traditional techniques on ahar-o-mohre (polished paper), were displayed in an intimate exhibition setting, allowing visitors to closely engage with the details and craftsmanship of each piece.
The program featured an artist talk introducing the concept and vision behind The Filigree of the Pen, highlighting its focus on connecting classical Persian calligraphy with contemporary voices from Afghanistan and Tajikistan. The presentation was accompanied by documentation of the creative process, offering insight into the artistic journey behind the works.
The event was warmly received, with strong attendance from artists, community members, and cultural practitioners. Guests engaged in thoughtful discussions, viewed the artworks, and participated in conversations around cultural identity, migration, and artistic expression within the diaspora.
Media documentation and interviews conducted during the event further reflected the growing interest in the project and its potential to contribute to multicultural artistic dialogue in Australia.
This successful gathering sets the stage for future exhibitions, workshops, and broader public programs to be delivered as part of The Filigree of the Pen.
