A report released on 6 June by the Thomas B. Fordham Institute finds that at a time of rapid globalization, most U.S. states don’t even try to provide young Americans with a solid grounding in world history. That’s why books like Arabic for Designers are more relevant than ever for designers to read and to absorb for today’s globally competitive market. Arabic is currently used in 23 countries and is spoken by over 300 million people. Although feelings about Arabic cultural integration may still be colored by events like 9/11, western businesses have sought to expand brand recognition to appeal to Arabic speaking people.

To that end, Arabic for Designers incorporates over 200 black and white and color examples of the best in Arabic calligraphy and graphic design. Beyond a current focus on design and advertising transitions, chapters also deal with historical backgrounds and cultural intricacies involved with the Arabic language and mindset. The focus is devoted to Arabic and Western Latin, or America and English-speaking Europe, but other global-reach advertising problems are included to expand on the difficult processes that are involved in cultural expansion and understanding.

The evolutions are universal, and the author notes this fact when he states that, “As the application of language change, so too does the identity of its speakers.” This transition is visible in the examples of how the Arabic and Latin typography blend to create new cross-cultural designs, which are explained through text and illustrations that range from corporate products to fashion to fine art.

Mourad Boutros speaks from experience, as he has worked to combine traditional Arabic calligraphic techniques with the latest technology and materials for over forty years. He has achieved more than just a beautiful book with this publication. He’s reached across cultural boundaries with text that’s missing in American history, social studies, and design books. After a designer reads Arabic for Designers, he or she will have an absolute advantage over anyone who attempts to understand the mysteries and beauty hidden within Arabic typography and culture.

Boutros’ Website - http://www.arabicfonts.com/
The Fordham Press Release about American History problems