The Sharp and Competent 2004

Ali Omar Ermes made this striking artwork, The Sharp and Competent, using watercolor and ink to bring together calligraphy and abstract expression. The composition feels both spontaneous and carefully considered, a testament to the artist’s process. Look closely, and you’ll see how the watery background creates a sense of depth and movement, like looking into a hazy sky. Splatters and washes of color blend together, forming a dreamy, ethereal space. The large, bold calligraphic forms anchor the composition, their sharp edges contrasting with the fluidity of the watercolor. The ink is dense, almost sculptural, giving weight to the letterforms. Notice the subtle variations in tone and texture, achieved through layering and blending. Ermes’s work reminds me of the paintings of Helen Frankenthaler, who also explored the expressive possibilities of color and form. But Ermes brings a unique cultural perspective, drawing on the rich tradition of Islamic calligraphy to create something entirely new. Ultimately, it’s a painting that celebrates the power of language and the beauty of abstraction.