‘More than Meets the Eye’ celebrates Saudi artists and collectors 

‘More than Meets the Eye’ celebrates Saudi artists and collectors 
Ahmed Mater, ‘Cowboy Code,’ 2012. (Supplied)
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Updated 21 March 2024
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‘More than Meets the Eye’ celebrates Saudi artists and collectors 

‘More than Meets the Eye’ celebrates Saudi artists and collectors 
  • Highlights from the exhibition, which includes works from 1950 up to the present day 

ALULA: AlUla’s mirrored Maraya concert hall is currently hosting “More than Meets the Eye,” featuring works from private art collections in Saudi Arabia, some of which are being displayed publicly for the first time. 

The show includes work dating back to the 1950s up to the present day, ranging from paintings to films and installations, and exploring themes including identity, poetry and homeland.  

“Our aim is to show the importance of collectors in Saudi Arabia and the role they played in the art ecosystem,” the show’s Saudi curator, Dr. Effat Abdullah Fadag, tells Arab News.  

Fadag traveled across the Kingdom, meeting the collectors and hearing the stories behind those collections.  

“I was very surprised of the amount of people who collected art for different reasons. It was overwhelming,” she says.  

One of Fadag’s aims was to bring together Saudi Arabia’s former and current generation of artists, some of whom originally come from other Arab countries, but made a name for themselves in the Kingdom.  

“I wanted to present artworks that are in dialogue with each other, rather than segregating them,” she explains. “Their aesthetics are different, but if we look into it, they’re exploring the same issues.”  

Here are seven highlights from the show, which runs until April 24.   

Abdulhalim Radwi 

‘Untitled’ (1978) 

The late Makkah-born artist is one of the luminaries of modern Saudi art. He was educated in Rome during the 1960s, making him one of the country’s first artists to study abroad. According to Fadag, after losing his father during childhood, Radwi was raised by his single mother and later had to provide for the family himself.   

In this predominantly blue-tuned painting, hailing from the collection of fellow artist Ali Alruzaiza, Radwi constructs an abstract scene of buildings in Makkah, set against a spiral background. “His relationship with Makkah was very important,” notes Fadag. 

Ahmed Mater  

‘Cowboy Code’ (2012) 

Mater hanging work is one of the largest pieces on show. “Cowboy Code” is made of hundreds of red plastic toy gun caps glued together, displaying a 10-point, written manifesto explaining how a cowboy (or a ‘virtuous’ person in general) should behave. “There is a connection to Bedouins and tribes,” says Fadag. “It’s an important work because he is examining foreign cultural influences inside Saudi Arabia.” According to the exhibition catalogue, “the code seems to point to a subversive critique of Western imperialism — a common feature of many of the artist’s artworks. 

Ali Alruzaiza  

‘Purity’ (2006) 

Alruzaiza is a former interior design student and reportedly built his own house. Much of the veteran artist’s work incorporates intricate Saudi architectural motifs. This work for example, made of sand and oil on canvas, showcases geometric designs and floral patterns. According to Fadag, the image has a human element too. “(This) work sheds light on the pivotal role of individuals in the community,” she says. “It serves as a reflection of individuals — particularly the workers who have collaborated closely with Ali. It embodies the purity of their relationships, devoid of ulterior motives, symbolizing the essence of society.”  

Fahad Hajailan  

‘Untitled’ (2001) 

In this dreamy portrait, which has not been exhibited before, Hajailan depicts his wife in dark green and blue tones. Fadag says the image is one of the artist’s “more sensual” pieces, and uses colors that are not typical to his work. “The strength and power of a female figure are expressed here in balance between movement and unity,” according to a statement. “The use of lapiz lazuli ultramarine blue symbolizes water, the sky, or the home of the gods, to position the female figure in a role of power.” 

Shadia Alem  

‘Supreme Kaaba of God, No. 4’ (2012) 

In this extraordinary collage of photographs, the multidisciplinary artist examines the physical changes happening in the city of Makkah. “It shows the conflict between spirituality and modernity,” Alem said in a statement. In the very center of the image stands the Holy Kaaba, surrounded by the windows of houses and imposing cranes.  

“I put this work in a particular room of the exhibition, which is about self-development and rebirth. These changes are happening physically, but we are automatically changing on the inside too,” says Fadag.

Muhannad Shono 

‘Letters in Light (Lines We Write)’ (2022) 

Spirituality, light and shadow are among the key themes of this monochrome work by the Saudi conceptual artist, who previously represented the Kingdom at the Venice Biennale. Here, Shono creates a meditative experience using steel, thread, and light projection. 

“The artworks featured in the exhibition present spirituality as an interesting subject that has been touched by artists in the Kingdom, serving as a medium through which artists articulate their inquiries and internal wisdom,” says Fadag. “By exploring the interplay between light and darkness, Muhannad’s artwork carves out spaces that shape our identities, inviting us to reach into our core to gain insight into the external world.” 

Adel Al-Quraishi  

‘Ateeq, the Bedouin, Desert of Nafud’ (2015) 

This striking black-and-white image of an elderly Bedouin man pouring coffee from the traditional Saudi flask with the confidence of a professional barista is typical of Al-Quraishi’s work, much of which involves documenting the people of his homeland, whether in the desert or in a studio setting. According to the exhibition catalogue, Al-Quraishi — born in 1968 — has been an influential figure in Saudi art because “his investment in documenting heritage sites, places and people of Saudi Arabia has shaped the ways in which documentation was introduced within contemporary art practices.” 


Crown Prince Hussein of Jordan shares photo of King Abdullah with granddaughter Iman

Crown Prince Hussein of Jordan shares photo of King Abdullah with granddaughter Iman
Updated 1 min 40 sec ago
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Crown Prince Hussein of Jordan shares photo of King Abdullah with granddaughter Iman

Crown Prince Hussein of Jordan shares photo of King Abdullah with granddaughter Iman

DUBAI: Jordan’s Crown Prince Hussein bin Abdullah took to Instagram on Saturday to share a touching photo of his father, King Abdullah, playing with his granddaughter Princess Iman.

The little girl is the daughter of Prince Hussein and his wife, Saudi Princess Rajwa Al-Hussein.

In the picture, the king is seen warmly interacting with Iman as she holds his cheeks.

“Iman with the dearest grandpa,” Prince Hussein captioned the post.

Rajwa and Hussein welcomed their first child on August 3, 2024. 

At her birth, the king posted a tribute to his granddaughter on social media. Translated from Arabic, the post reads: “I thank God for giving us our first granddaughter Iman bint Hussein. I congratulate beloved Hussein and Rajwa for their newborn.

“We ask God to raise her well and protect her for her parents. You have lit up our family,” he added. 


Mrs Keepa’s latest collection ‘La Boite’ is statement on breaking free

Mrs Keepa’s latest collection ‘La Boite’ is statement on breaking free
Updated 28 min 48 sec ago
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Mrs Keepa’s latest collection ‘La Boite’ is statement on breaking free

Mrs Keepa’s latest collection ‘La Boite’ is statement on breaking free

DUBAI: Mariam Yehia is the ultimate nonconformist. As the founder and creative force behind Dubai-based fashion house Mrs Keepa, her label is not defined by traditional fashion norms. Known for bold silhouettes, sculptural tailoring and avant-garde sensibility, Mrs Keepa thrives on individuality and reinvention. Yehia’s Spring/Summer 2025 collection, La Boite, takes this ethos even further — challenging stereotypes, embracing duality, and redefining fashion as a personal and cultural narrative.

At its core, La Boite, which translates to “The Box,” is a direct commentary on the limitations imposed by rigid categorization. “People are always trying to fit fashion, people and even cultures into predefined boxes,” Yehia said. “This collection is about breaking free from that.” Through structured silhouettes, boxy tailoring and unexpected design transformations, the collection encourages wearers to reinterpret fashion on their own terms. Each look can be styled in multiple ways — chic, casual or bold —offering a fluidity that reflects the modern woman’s ever-changing identity.

(Supplied)

Yehia pulls out a black boxy short dress with multiple long pieces of fabric hanging from the padded shoulders and explains how the dress can be worn depending on the wearer’s mood. A client can wear the dress exactly as is — loose and androgynous — or she can tie the fabric and cinch the waist, or even layer it over a skirt and pair it with sneakers. “One outfit can have many different personas,” said Yehia. The same philosophy translates to her more sporty pieces featuring mesh and kimono sleeves — wear it wrapped around as a mini dress, or leave it open and pair it with leggings. Each ensemble gives you more than just a single look. A series of mini dresses with a scarf-like attachment will sell fast, as will the jumpsuit that can be deconstructed and worn as ultra-wide pants.

(Supplied)

While every garment was impactful, the star pieces were undoubtedly the brocade ones. A dramatic thigh-length jacket, shorts and trousers in luxurious brocade were given the sporty treatment through contrast piping —  highlighting the polarities of us as individuals. Elsewhere, denim garments engineered to perfection catch the eye. An edgy denim jacket retains a cinched look even when unbuttoned, while jeans with the waistband folded over featuring sparkling embellishments add a maximalist touch. Loyal Mrs Keepa clients will also be drawn to a red crepe number with exaggerated shoulders and high low layering of fabric, which can be both modest and sexy.  Potential buyers might also enjoy her experimentation with feminine lace — a rarity for Yehia.

(Supplied)

Mrs Keepa has always thrived on storytelling through fashion, and La Boite is no exception. Beyond its sharp tailoring and experimental silhouettes, the collection holds a deeper meaning: A rejection of stereotypes, particularly those imposed on Middle Eastern people. “We’ve been framed for too long. For years, global fashion dictated that for a designer to be successful, they had to be recognized internationally first. But why? Why can’t we build a strong foundation in our own region first, before expanding outward?” She speaks of the diversity of designs within the region itself and of the uniqueness of each Arab designer, whether it is refined tailoring, cool streetwear, maximalist silhouettes or modest fashion. “Despite this diversity, we are still stereotyped. This collection challenges the rigid perceptions that frame the Middle East as a monolithic culture, often diminishing its significance.”

Yehia delivers a collection that is both metaphorically and literally transformative. Whether through adjustable silhouettes, unexpected layering or garments that can be styled in various ways, each piece invites the wearer to reshape, reinterpret and make it their own. “Fashion isn’t just about clothing — it’s about identity, emotion and the freedom to express yourself beyond predefined labels,” Yehia said. La Boite is an invitation to step outside the box — on your own terms.


Les Benjamins makes its debut at Dubai Fashion week  

Les Benjamins makes its debut at Dubai Fashion week  
Updated 08 February 2025
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Les Benjamins makes its debut at Dubai Fashion week  

Les Benjamins makes its debut at Dubai Fashion week  

DUBAI: Les Benjamins, the Istanbul-based brand renowned for blending Eastern and Western influences, made its debut at Dubai Fashion week.

Led by creative director Bunyamin Aydin and by head of women’s wear Lamia Al-Otaishan Aydin, the pair presented the Autumn/Winter 2025 collection on Wednesday. 

Drawing inspiration from the Altai region, the “Altai Turks/Altaicana” collection blends traditional cultural elements and modern fashion. 

The collection draws inspiration from the Altai people’s harmonious relationship with nature, their ancient traditions, and the mythology that shapes their cultural identity.

Featuring a neutral color palette such as those found in nature, such as warm browns, forest greens and even pieces depicting mountain ranges, the collection is a direct reflection of nature. 

The Saudi designer said the collection was inspired by her husband, the brand’s creative director.

“Bunyamin Aydin, our creative director, came up with the concept and direction. It’s about going back to his roots and Turkic Altai region,” she said.

When asked about her favorite piece, the designer said it was too hard to select just one.

“Some of my favorites are the green leather jacket with all the curves that represents the Altai mountains. My other favorite is the long red coat with sheep’s fur,” she said.

The show featured fashion influencers from the region including Jullz Bek, Basil Alhadi and Osied Al-Shwaihan .

Lamia’s Saudi heritage plays a big role in the brand’s presence in the Middle East and the UAE, with special collections featuring Arabic letters and design elements. 

Founded in 2011, Les Benjamins has outlets in the UAE and a strong online presence in the market. 

The brand has collaborated with the likes of Nike, Daniel Arsham, Apple, Puma, and many more. 

The city’s official fashion week, co-founded by Dubai Design District and the Arab Fashion Council, reinforces Dubai’s status in the international fashion landscape.

Hosting labels such as Moschino, Jean Paul Gaultier and Carolina Herrera, Dubai Fashion Week has welcomed designers from all over the world while also fostering homegrown talent.  


Japanese car exhibition zooms into Ithra

Japanese car exhibition zooms into Ithra
Updated 07 February 2025
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Japanese car exhibition zooms into Ithra

Japanese car exhibition zooms into Ithra

DHAHRAN: Ithra, the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, is presenting a special vintage car exhibition, which began on Thursday.

The exhibition is part of the Japan Cultural Days event, hosted at Ithra headquarters in Dhahran to celebrate 70 years of Japan-Saudi relations.

The exhibition is part of the Japan Cultural Days event. (Supplied)

The exhibition is being held outdoors in the Energy Exhibit area, which provides a distinctive setting for this unique display.

Maha Abdulhadi, creative programs specialist at Ithra, told Arab News: “With help from Japanese classic car enthusiasts Ali Aldhamin and Nazar Alqlaf, we curated this display to showcase a broad range of vehicles that represent a significant chapter in the history of the Japanese car industry, which is highly appreciated in Saudi Arabia.”

The exhibition features 13 cars, most of which are owned by private collectors in Qatif, and spans a variety of classic models, modern designs, and concept vehicles. “This is a rare opportunity for car enthusiasts in the Kingdom to experience Japanese engineering and design up close,” Abdulhadi said.

The exhibition is being held outdoors in the Energy Exhibit area. (Supplied)

The display highlights the design, technology and innovative features of Japanese vehicles, with the cars available for viewing from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. each day.

“This unique exhibit showcases Japan’s innovative designs, precision engineering, and passion for performance, enhancing the festival experience,” Abdulhadi said. “A Japanese car show as part of the Japan Cultural Days highlights Japan’s rich automotive heritage, fosters community engagement, and promotes cultural exchange. It also attracts car enthusiasts.”

The exhibition ends on February 8, marking the conclusion of the Japan Cultural Days celebration.


Andria Tayeh named beauty ambassador for Giorgio Armani

Andria Tayeh named beauty ambassador for Giorgio Armani
Updated 07 February 2025
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Andria Tayeh named beauty ambassador for Giorgio Armani

Andria Tayeh named beauty ambassador for Giorgio Armani

DUBAI: Giorgio Armani on Thursday announced the appointment of Lebanese Jordanian actress Andria Tayeh as its new Middle East beauty ambassador.

Tayeh, known for her roles in Austrian filmmaker Kurdwin Ayub’s “Mond” and Netflix’s hit series “Al Rawabi School for Girls,” expressed her excitement on Instagram and wrote: “I am thrilled and honored to embark on this new journey with Armani beauty.

“This marks a real milestone for me, as the brand embodies values I have always cherished: timeless elegance, dramatic simplicity, and women empowerment,” she added. “Armani beauty reveals one’s charismatic personality in the most subtle and natural way. It’s this pure simplicity that creates an impact, and this is exactly what I hope to bring to the Arab cinema world.”