Born in Kota Tinggi, Johor and raised in the historic town of Masjid Tanah, Melaka, Firdaus Mahadi emerged as a distinguished figure in the realm of Arabic calligraphy. His artistic journey began within the hallowed walls of Sekolah Menengah Agama Kerajaan Johor, Kluang, where his passion for the art of calligraphy found its roots.
Education played a pivotal role in shaping Firdaus’s artistic prowess. His journey through Maahad Johor and the Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM), where he pursued a B.A in Pengajian Qur’an dan Sunnah (2003-2006), laid the foundation for his deep understanding of the intricate relationship between calligraphy and Islamic heritage. Subsequently, he pursued a Master’s degree in Fine Art and Technology at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) from 2010 to 2012.
Firdaus’s commitment to the preservation and promotion of Arabic calligraphy goes beyond the canvas. He is the founder and director of Callidesign, an organization dedicated to the art of calligraphy, and serves as an advocate for Islamic heritage through Seni Khat Warisan Islam.
Professionally, Firdaus has made significant contributions, holding the position of Director at Callidesign. Concurrently, he has been a lecturer in the Department of Arabic Calligraphy at Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) from 2010-2020, nurturing the next generation of calligraphers. Additionally, his role as a columnist for Majalah Al-Islam and as the Editor Kanan at Synergymate Sdn. Bhd. from 2006 to 2009 showcases his diverse engagement in the artistic and editorial realms.
Firdaus’s dedication to his craft extends into various exhibitions and demonstrations worldwide, from Korea to Singapore and back to Malaysia. Noteworthy exhibitions include the “Celebrating Of The Golden Anniversary Of Islam In Korea” in Seoul, South Korea (2006), “One World Many Cultures Exhibition” in Singapore (2007), and the “International Islamic Art & Calligraphy Exhibition 2013” in Kuala Lumpur.
Beyond calligraphy, Firdaus has showcased his talent in photography. His lens has captured the essence of Kuala Lumpur City Centre, and he has been the official photographer for renowned artists like Maher Zain, Zain Bikha, Inteam, Hijjaz, and Farid Sanullah.
Firdaus’s artistic contributions also transcend the gallery space. His involvement in community events, workshops, and educational programs reflects his commitment to enriching society culturally, emotionally, spiritually, and intellectually.
With a diverse skill set encompassing various calligraphic styles, paintings and proficiency in graphic design software, Firdaus aspires to be a dynamic professional contributing to education, research, and the uplifting of the broader community. His ambition is to become a respected reference point, a role model, and to elevate the status of Islamic Calligraphy to its zenith. Insha’Allah, his journey in the world of art continues to inspire and contribute to the rich tapestry of Islamic cultural heritage.