Barely two months after observing Christmas, Hanukkah, and Ramadan, another venerable celebration is about to begin: Nowruz, an ancient festival over 3,000 years old. Although deeply rooted in Iranian culture, it is recognized by millions across Asia and other parts of the world, including Iraq, Afghanistan, Turkey, and Kazakhstan. The holiday is the highpoint of the Persian year and is secular, celebrated by all faiths.
Nowruz occurs on the vernal equinox, when the sun is located exactly above the equator, which is usually between March 19th and 22nd. The celebration itself takes place over 13 days and is full of symbolism which can vary from country to country but always centers on the common themes of rebirth, new beginnings, and the celebration of nature.
Nahid Boustani of McLean celebrates Nowruz with her family and friends by first setting up the Nowruz table, which will stay set for 13 days. The items are symbolic, each one representing heath, wealth, and life. Her family members and neighbors enjoy sitting around the table before the exact time of the equinox, using that time to quietly contemplate, read poetry, and be still.
Boustani is a celebrated Persian calligrapher, calligraphy being one of the most revered arts throughout the history of Iran. It is also a contemplative and meditative practice known for its transformative and tranquil effects. Calligraphy for Boustani was “a soul calling,” a return to an ancient art she was introduced to during her childhood in Iran.
After moving to the U.S., and completing a work in calligraphy for an Iranian family in New York, she learned they were “overjoyed with the spirit of the art.” Boustani has also gone on to sell many of her calligraphy pieces in charity auctions. “What I first started as a connection to my roots and a deep expression of my spiritual side, naturally evolved to become something that extended to serve many reasons.”
In 2019 she was invited to participate in Reston Town Center’s prestigious national outdoor art fair and since has been a part of multiple group exhibitions. She reflects that “My favorite use of my art is through contributing to creating conversations, social impact projects, and community building.” She adds, “To stay true to the ancient nature of this art, though my style stays contemporary, I only use the ancient tools of a wooden pen and ink.”
Boustani continues to spread knowledge of the richness of Persian culture and the ancient art of calligraphy. In January she offered an afternoon of conversation and hands-on experiment in calligraphy at the Iranian-American Community Center in Tysons, Virginia. She welcomes commission projects and will soon be opening her online platform to emerging artists and calligraphy lovers.
Nahid Boustani can be reached at nboustani00@gmail.com