Charis Tsevis - Qatar 2022

In the heart of the desert, where ancient traditions meet modern innovation, the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar became more than just a sporting event—it was a celebration of culture, geometry, and the universal language of art. Drawing inspiration from the intricate patterns of Arabesque design, I embarked on a journey to merge the worlds of football and Islamic art, creating mosaic portraits that honor both the athletes and the rich heritage of the Arab world.

The Essence of Arabesque

Arabesque art, characterized by its flowing lines and intricate geometric patterns, has been a cornerstone of Islamic aesthetics for centuries. Rooted in the principles of unity and the infinite nature of creation, these designs often feature repeating motifs that symbolize the unending nature of the universe. The mathematical precision required to create such patterns reflects a deep understanding of geometry and symmetry, disciplines that were highly developed in the Islamic Golden Age.

In my work, I sought to capture the spirit of Arabesque by integrating its principles into the portrayal of contemporary football icons. This fusion serves as a testament to the timelessness of Islamic art and its relevance in today’s global culture.

Let's start with a 48-seconds animated presentation of this project:

Bridging Cultures Through Script

One of the most daring aspects of this project was the incorporation of the Bannai script—a geometric form of Kufic calligraphy traditionally used in Iranian architecture—into the Latin alphabet. This cross-cultural experiment aimed to create a visual dialogue between the Arabic and Western worlds, highlighting the universality of artistic expression.

Technological Synthesis: Tradition Meets Innovation

To bring these intricate designs to life, I employed a combination of traditional artistic techniques and modern digital tools. Central to this process was Synthetik Studio Artist, a software developed by John Dalton, whose expertise in musical and visual synthesizers spans decades. This tool allowed me to algorithmically generate complex patterns that mirror the mathematical intricacies of Arabesque art.

Complementing this were Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, which facilitated the detailed montage work necessary for the mosaic compositions. Through this blend of technology and tradition, I aimed to create pieces that resonate with both historical authenticity and contemporary aesthetics.

The Illustrations: Athletes as Art

Each mosaic portrait in this series represents not just an athlete, but a convergence of cultural narratives, personal journeys, and artistic expression.

Mohamed Salah: Egypt in Qatar 2022

Mohamed Salah, the Egyptian forward known for his agility and precision, embodies the spirit of resilience and dedication. His portrait integrates traditional Egyptian motifs with Arabesque patterns, symbolizing the fusion of national pride and Islamic heritage. The intricate designs reflect the complexity of his footwork and the elegance of his play.

Mohamed Salah - Egypt 🇪🇬: An intricate mosaic of Mohamed Salah, reflecting Egypt’s rich cultural heritage through Arabesque designs and national colors.

Lionel Messi: Argentina in Qatar 2022

Lionel Messi’s artistry on the field is mirrored in the delicate balance of geometry and flow within his portrait. Drawing parallels between his strategic play and the calculated symmetry of Islamic patterns, the artwork captures the essence of a player who, like Arabesque art, combines precision with creativity.

(Partially based on a photo by Кирилл Венедиктов (CC) / Wikimedia)

Lionel Messi - Argentina 🇦🇷: Lionel Messi portrayed in a mosaic that blends Islamic geometric artistry with Argentine symbolism, highlighting global cultural intersections.

Cristiano Ronaldo: Portugal in Qatar 2022

Cristiano Ronaldo’s dynamic presence and relentless drive are encapsulated through bold geometric forms and vibrant tessellations. The mosaic’s structure reflects his disciplined approach to the game, while the intricate details pay homage to the meticulous nature of Islamic design.

(Partially based on a photo by Анна Нэсси (CC) / Wikimedia)

Cristiano Ronaldo - Portugal 🇵🇹: Cristiano Ronaldo’s likeness captured in a mosaic that intertwines Portugal’s identity with Islamic artistic traditions.

Neymar Jr: Brazil in Qatar 2022

Neymar’s flair and spontaneity are represented through fluid patterns and vibrant colors, echoing the lively rhythms of Arabesque motifs. The interplay of shapes and hues captures the essence of his unpredictable and captivating style of play.

(Partially based on a photo by Antoine Dellenbach (CC) / Wikimedia)

Neymar Jr. - Brazil 🇧🇷: A vibrant mosaic of Neymar Jr, merging Brazil’s dynamic spirit with the precision of Islamic geometric design.

Paul Pogba: France in Qatar 2022

Paul Pogba’s versatility and strength are depicted through robust geometric patterns interlaced with subtle curves, symbolizing his ability to adapt and innovate on the field. The design reflects the harmony between structure and creativity inherent in both his gameplay and Islamic art.

(Partially based on a photo by Антон Зайцев (CC) / Wikimedia)

Paul Pogba - France 🇫🇷: Paul Pogba depicted in a mosaic that fuses France’s national identity with the elegance of Islamic art.

Álvaro Morata: Spain in Qatar 2022

Álvaro Morata’s strategic positioning and keen sense of timing are mirrored in the calculated symmetry and repetition of the mosaic’s design. The artwork draws inspiration from Spanish-Islamic art, highlighting the historical connections between the two cultures.

(Partially based on a photo by Кирилл Венедиктов (CC) / Wikimedia)

Álvaro Morata - Spain 🇪🇸: Álvaro Morata’s image rendered in a mosaic that marries Spanish heritage with Islamic artistic influences.

Raheem Sterling: England in Qatar 2022

Raheem Sterling’s speed and agility are captured through dynamic patterns and sharp contrasts, reflecting the energy and movement characteristic of his play. The design integrates elements reminiscent of Islamic art’s emphasis on motion and transformation.

(Partially based on a photo by Кирилл Венедиктов (CC) / Wikimedia)

Raheem Sterling - England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿: Raheem Sterling portrayed in a mosaic that blends England’s identity with the intricacy of Islamic geometric art.

Ángel Di María: Argentina in Qatar 2022

Ángel Di María’s finesse and vision are portrayed through delicate interlacing patterns and harmonious color schemes. The mosaic emphasizes the balance and grace that define both his approach to the game and the aesthetic principles of Arabesque art.

(Partially based on a photo by Кирилл Венедиктов (CC) / Wikimedia)

Ángel Di María - Argentina🇦🇷: Ángel Di María’s likeness captured in a mosaic that unites Argentine elements with Islamic artistic traditions.

Federico Chiesa: Italy in Qatar 2022

Federico Chiesa’s youthful vigor and determination are reflected in bold designs and vibrant colors, symbolizing a new generation’s embrace of tradition and innovation. The artwork pays tribute to Italy’s rich artistic heritage while incorporating Islamic geometric principles.

(Partially based on a photo by SBonsi © / Shutterstock)

Federico Chiesa - Italy 🇮🇹: Federico Chiesa depicted in a mosaic that intertwines Italian heritage with the precision of Islamic geometric design.

Bridging Cultures Through Script

One of the most daring aspects of this project was the incorporation of the Bannai script—a geometric form of Kufic calligraphy traditionally used in Iranian architecture—into the Latin alphabet. This cross-cultural experiment aimed to create a visual dialogue between the Arabic and Western worlds, highlighting the universality of artistic expression.

By adapting the Bannai script to Latin characters, I hoped to pay homage to Islamic calligraphic traditions while making them accessible to a broader audience. This endeavor underscores the potential of art to transcend linguistic and cultural barriers.

A tribute to Mohamed Salah, intertwining Egypt’s football pride with the geometric elegance of Bannai script.

Celebrating Lionel Messi through the structured beauty of Bannai script, connecting global football artistry with Islamic design.

Neymar Jr.’s vibrant energy captured through the precise lines of Bannai script, uniting Brazilian flair with Islamic art.

Raheem Sterling’s agility and creativity encapsulated in Bannai script, bridging English football with Islamic artistic heritage.

Qatar 2022

Álvaro Morata’s striking talent depicted through the structured elegance of Bannai script, linking Spanish football with Islamic art.

Paul Pogba’s dynamic presence rendered in Bannai script, merging French football prowess with Islamic design principles

Cristiano Ronaldo’s legacy immortalized in Bannai script, bridging Portuguese football excellence with Islamic artistic heritage.

The Animations:

The details:

These illustrations took hours and hours of work. Take a look at the details:

Sketches, ideas, experiments from the studies on Arabesque:

Applications in typography, logo design, poster and brochure design...

Conclusion: A Harmonious Convergence

This project stands as a testament to the power of art to bridge cultures, eras, and disciplines. By intertwining the worlds of football and Islamic art, I aimed to create a visual narrative that celebrates diversity, unity, and the timeless beauty of geometric design. In doing so, I hope to inspire a deeper appreciation for the intricate connections that bind us all.

Note: This is an experimental, self-initiated project created for educational purposes. It is not affiliated with FIFA, Qatar 2022, or any official organization.

Artworks were created using custom-developed scripts and techniques in Synthetik Studio Artist, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe After Effects, and Adobe Premiere on Apple Mac computers.

Special thanks to Vera Konstanta for her invaluable assistance and continuous support.

Respect to the many generations of Arabic artists, calligraphers, artisans, and all who have contributed to this rich heritage.

Thank you for your visit.

If you like to see more of my sport related projects visit:

Kintsugi 2020 (For the Tokyo Olympics)

Russia 2018 (For the Russian World Cup)

Mastercard Greece: UEFA Champions League 2019 (Best Greek goals in Champions League's history)

NBA Finals 2019 (For Bleacher Report)

Bucks: The Dears from Milwaukee

PAFOS FC: The Football team of my hometown Pafos in Cyprus.

Cristiano Ronaldo: O orgulho de Portugal

Lio Messi: Els fragments de Barcelona