My heart has eyes that see only for you, and it is completely in your hands (Al Hallaj) 

Hassan Massoudy created this ink work, ‘My heart has eyes that see only for you, and it is completely in your hands (Al Hallaj)’, using his expertise in calligraphy. Born in Iraq in 1944, his work intersects traditional Islamic art with contemporary abstract expressionism. This piece uses Arabic script not just for its semantic meaning but for its aesthetic value, a practice that has deep roots in Islamic culture, where calligraphy is revered as one of the highest forms of artistic expression. The fluid lines and curves create a sense of movement and emotion, reflecting the profound love and devotion expressed in the words. The text itself references Al Hallaj, a controversial Sufi mystic executed for professing his personal and direct connection to God. Massoudy has said, “Calligraphy is not just about writing words; it’s about breathing life into them.” This reminds us that this work also explores themes of identity, spirituality, and resistance to traditional religious authority. ‘My heart has eyes that see only for you...’ invites us to consider the power of love and faith, as well as the risks involved in expressing such deeply felt emotions.