Education
- 2003 & 2011: Course of Calligraphy from National College of Arts (NCA) Lahore, Pakistan
- 2005-2009: 4 years Summer Calligraphy Course from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Iran & Turkey
- 2000-2008: Ijaza in Islamic Calligraphy by Renowned Calligrapher Ustad Ghulam Rasool (Pakistan)
- 2009: Ijaza (Highest Calligraphy Diploma) in Arabic Calligraphy by World’s Famous Ustad Al-Mounji Ammar (Tunis)
- 2011: Calligraphy Workshop Course by PNCA held in Shakir Ali Museum, Lahore
- 2013: 4-year Diploma in calligraphy from Gohar Qalam Calligraphy Institute, Lahore, Pakistan
Biography
Muhammad Ashraf Heera, a native of Hafizabad, is a highly esteemed Pakistani calligraphy artist and academic. His exceptional skills in Arabic and Islamic calligraphy have earned him recognition and accolades on both national and international platforms. Through his dedication and passion for this ancient art form, Heera has become a prominent figure in the world of calligraphy.
Early Life and Education
Born in Hafizabad, a city in the Punjab province of Pakistan, Muhammad Ashraf Heera grew up surrounded by the rich cultural heritage of the region. From a young age, he displayed a deep interest in art and design, particularly in the intricate world of calligraphy.
Heera pursued formal education in calligraphy to refine his skills and explore the intricacies of the art form. Under the guidance of renowned calligraphy masters, including Al-Munji Ammar in Tunisia and Ghulam Rasool in Pakistan, Heera honed his craft and developed his own unique artistic style.
Artistic Achievements
Muhammad Ashraf Heera’s artistic achievements have brought pride to his hometown of Hafizabad and showcased the immense talent present in the region. He has participated in numerous international calligraphy competitions and has achieved remarkable success.
Professional Experiences
- 2013-2019: Visiting Lecturer of Calligraphy & Naqashi at University of Sargodha, Sargodha
- 2015-present: Founder & Organizer of Ashraf-ul-Qalam National calligraphy competitions
- 2017: External Examiner and Teacher of Calligraphy Course at Lahore College for Women University, Lahore
- 2012-2017: Trainer of Calligraphy & Naqqashi at Gujranwala Institute of Fine Arts Gujranwala
- 2016: Teacher of Calligraphy at National College of Business Administration & Economics Lahore
- 2016: Teacher of Darussalam Calligraphy Course, Lahore
- 2009: Teacher of Illumination & Calligraphy at CCRS (National College of Arts) Lahore
Awards and Achievements
Muhammad Ashraf Heera has won numerous awards in national and international calligraphy competitions, including multiple first prizes in prestigious events across the globe, such as Turkey, Egypt, UAE, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and China. He has also received recognition from the President of Pakistan and other notable figures for his contributions to the art of calligraphy.
Legacy and Mentorship
As an academic and mentor, Heera continues to nurture and inspire the next generation of calligraphers in Hafizabad. Through his workshops and guidance, he ensures that the rich tradition of calligraphy remains alive and vibrant within the local community.
Conclusion
Muhammad Ashraf Heera, a native of Hafizabad, has achieved remarkable success in the field of calligraphy. His dedication, talent, and numerous accolades have not only brought recognition to his own artistic prowess but have also put Hafizabad on the map as a city that nurtures and produces exceptional calligraphers.
As Heera continues to leave a lasting legacy through his artistic achievements and contributions, his impact on the cultural landscape of Hafizabad remains profound. His work serves as a testament to the power of art to transcend boundaries and connect communities, making him a true source of pride for his hometown.