The recently established Talented Patronage Group of Makkah held their first exhibition on Monday, Dec. 13 at the Metropolitan Hotel in Makkah. The Group, which was formed in June, aims to encourage the talents of young women in Makkah by finding them corporate sponsors. It also hopes to organize cultural and social activities in a city that, compared to Jeddah, sees few of both. “We want to present competent, skilled women with an outstanding talent, whether in art, literature, science or any other subject,” said Lamia Attas, the group’s founder.
The exhibition marks the start of their cultural programs which will include more art exhibitions as well as literary works by the girls the group supports.
Princess Najla bint Saud ibn Abdul Aziz opened the exhibition which features art works by seven talented young women between the age of 16 and 22. Their work was judged by a group of Saudi artists including Taha Al-Sabban, Abdullah Hamas, and the critic Hisham Qandeel. Five of the women received honorary certificates and the other two received recognition certificates.
“The works of these seven talented participants surprised the panel; we eliminated any ‘pre-conceived’ recommendations that we might have had,” said Hisham Qandeel.
Dr. Saleh ibn Naser, deputy director of Youth Welfare, opened the exhibition’s second evening.
The large attendants to the exhibition were impressed by the girls talents especially Princess Najla who considered the works to be more on a professional level and complimented the group on their efforts. “There are many talented people here in Makkah and it is important for those who are capable to serve their community in any way they can,” said Lamia Attas. The group’s board of directors includes the general supervisor as well as the supervisors of six committees, in addition to the evaluation committee for each cultural and scientific activity that evaluates the works of the applicants.
The group thanked Sheikh Abdul Maqsood Khoja for sponsoring the exhibition.