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WinSoft Arabic Typography Contest

Interview with jury member Joe Karkour
Regional Business Development Manager for the Creative Products for Adobe Systems Middle East

WinSoft International is delighted to have Joe Karkour, among the members of the jury of the WinSoft Arabic Typography Contest. One of the top representatives of Adobe, Mr Karkour encourages more young designers to look at Arabic Typography and is looking forward to seeing examples of new and creative thinking. We hope that this interview will inspire you!

1. Why did you accept to be part of the WinSoft Arabic Typography Contest jury? What appealed to you?

I accepted to be part of the WinSoft Arabic Typography Contest Jury because of my previous experience in creating Arabic Type in the region, and my interest in Arabic Typography as an art. I would love to be part of an event that will encourage more young designers to look at Arabic Typography as a way to express their art, and help create some new forms of Arabic Calligraphy in the market.

2. What does the theme of the WinSoft Arabic Typography Contest mean to you?

With this kind of contest, WinSoft International is encouraging designers to showcase their creativity. Arabic Typography is an art thousands of years old, and a legacy that must be respected and continuously nourished.

3. What, in your opinion, are the main skills necessary to create a quality work of typographic design?

Skills must include the basic respect of Typography rules, an understanding of this form of art. However, we should be looking at new creative thinking when it comes to Arabic Calligraphy. There is a dire need in the market for some free style Arabic Typographic designs away from the traditional over used type!

4. What advice would you give to participants?

I would give participants a simple advise. Do not worry to express your feelings & freedom in your art. Stick to the general rules and guidelines of Arabic Typography, but be free to add new ideas. There is need for such creative work. Stay away from the traditional Naskh, Rokai, and Koufi designs, there are so many of these already, and we need new ideas. Unleash your creativity.

5. What are your expectations for the WinSoft Arabic Typography Contest?

I expect a lot of entries, and a lot of great designs. I have seen the work of so many students in the past few years, and was always astonished at how young designers continue to have interest in this form of art, and how they add their personal touches. I hope that we can see more young designers contribute to the survival of this art for generations to come.

6. What do you like the most in the Creative Products sector?

I like how the technology has evolved and is now more accessible to everyone. It is allowing more and more young people to be creative in their work, and express their ideas in a better way.

7. In your opinion, what will be the main trends in Arabic typography in the next few years?

A dramatic shift has taken place in the way people experience ideas and information: The Web/Mobile revolution has spurred a convergence of media, message, and mobility; entertaining/informational multimedia messages follow us everywhere, 24/7. People are experiencing a literal explosion of digital information with new technology/media experiences/devices appearing daily. They are also contributing to this explosion in record numbers by participating in content creation, sharing, and consumption.
In this context, it's easy to see that creating truly engaging experiences is critical for companies and organizations that want to differentiate themselves and their message.

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