By ABDULMALIK MERCHANT
Karl Schlamminger (1935-2017)
It is with much sadness to report that the internationally renowned artist and sculptor, Karl Schlamminger, passed away on Saturday, 9th December 2017 in Munich at the age of 82.
Karl Schlamminger is best known for his design of the logo for the Aga Khan Award for Architecture, in which the word Allah is repeated eight times in rectangular kufic script to create an interlocking central diamond pattern.
Aga Khan Award for Architecture Logo designed by Karl Schlamminger. Photo: Archnet.
Most recently, Karl Schlamminger designed the sculpture of the Global Pluralism award, wherein the three-dimensional latticework yields a plurality of intersections, offering ever new vantage points, symbolizing pluralism.
Global Pluralism Award sculptor designed by Karl Schlamminger. Photo: The Global Centre for Pluralism.
For Ismailis throughout the world, the extraordinary designs and distinctive calligraphies specially created by Karl Schlamminger for the Ismaili Centres in London, Lisbon and Toronto exemplify the indelible and everlasting contribution of this outstanding artist and creative genius.
Basmallah calligraphy by Karl Schlamminger at the Ismaili Centre, Toronto. Photo: Simerg/Malik Merchant.
A more detailed report on Karl Schlamminger’s artistic work on the projects of the Aga Khan Development Network and Imamat institutions will be posted next week.
Date posted: December 14, 2017.
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Simerg - Insights from Around the World 
We are very sad to hear of the passing of Mr. Karl Schlamminger, one of the great icons in the field of arts and sculpture. May Almighty rest his soul in peace. Our deepest condolences to his family and friends for their loss.
My most sincere condolences to Mr Schlamminger’s loved ones. We’ve lost a genius indeed. May his soul rest in peace.