Khetout // خطوط

Ali Abdullah

The collection KHETOUT—the Arabic word for “fonts”, “scripts”, or “lines”—presents some of the most distinct and well-designed Arabic typefaces that can be found online for free, devised by Ali Abdullah. Ten typefaces of various styles and twenty Arabic typographic posters, each designed to these typefaces, are included in the edition. The collection aims to serve as a typographical guide for Arabic graphic designers, novice type designers, or just for anyone with an interest in Arabic script and typography.

Ali Abdullah

Ali Abdullah is a Berlin-based graphic designer and illustrator from Cairo, Egypt. Many of his works are primarily focused on typography and letters.  Ali firmly believes in creating culturally significant and mindful design that accurately represents his heritage and identity. To accompany his dissertation, Cultural Identity within Arabic Type and Typography, he created the first edition of Khetout, the Arabic Type Guide for
designers and typographers.

What is a good design for you?

Personally, I like minimal design with a sense of abstraction and believe that less is more. Balance and symmetry are also very important elements for me in design.

What was the most challenging experience during your studies?

My biggest challenge I would say was balancing between work, university, and having some personal time.

How do you approach a new project?

Usually, I don't spend a lot of time planning, I just start creating anything and the ideas come along the way, which changes and improves the project.

Have you changed during your studies? How?

Throughout the course of my studies, I've definitely changed in many ways. I've had the chance to discover my interests and strengths and know more clearly now what I am interested in and what I want to do when it comes to design. My passion for typography, for example, started after taking some typography classes and projects at university.

Why did you choose to study in your programme?

When it comes to one's career, I think if you do what you love, you will love what you do. I've always been passionate about art, design, and photography so pursuing graphic design was the perfect choice for me.

How are you going to celebrate your graduation?

I'll probably celebrate with my classmates for finishing this academic journey together.

Say hi!

1 comments in total

benoit.sauthier 2021-07-16 19:21:28

Nice work !

Janina Wesnigk