Dana Almasoud’s works are inspired by historical Middle Eastern and European art aesthetics
Updated 16 April 2024
Sulafa Alkhunaizi
RIYADH: When picking up a pencil or paintbrush to create an artwork, self-taught Saudi artist Dana Almasoud channels her inner child.
“As soon as a child picks up a pencil, they attempt to draw or capture a sense of what they see through their eyes on paper. The majority of them stop at some point in their childhood, for whatever reason,” Almasoud told Arab News.
Almasoud’s painting of a man selling ramsi tomatoes, the seasonal heirloom fruits with green ‘shoulders’ found in Qatif. (Supplied)
“Fortunately, I was one of the few who never did. I had the luxury of a supportive mother who always looked forward to my next scribble.”
While pursuing her undergraduate studies in finance, as a freelance artist Almasoud explores a variety of styles, from fine art to surrealism and fantasy inspired by everyday scenes.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Much of Dana Almasoud’s work is inspired by Islamic historical art, characterized by its symbolism and emphasis on the beauty of spirituality.
• One of her first works inspired by Saudi culture was a commission from a man who wanted a portrait in the orientalist style.
• The artist says her work is an attempt to fill the void that excess simplicity and minimalism has created in recent years.
“The warm morning sun, the singing of the birds, the stoplights and the people. I am surrounded by life and I do my best to pour what I see into my work. What makes us human is how we make things from nothing,” she said.
Almasoud’s painting of a man selling ramsi tomatoes, the seasonal heirloom fruits with green ‘shoulders’ found in Qatif. (Supplied)
Speaking about the “sanctuary” she has created in her room, she said: “It took me years of collecting, arranging and a lot of dedication to get it to how it is now.”
Much of Almasoud’s work is inspired by Islamic historical art, characterized by its symbolism and emphasis on the beauty of spirituality.
As a freelance artist Dana Almasoud explores a variety of styles, from fine art to surrealism and fantasy inspired by everyday scenes. (Instagram/esotericdana)
“In order for me to create things that resemble life, it only makes sense to use colors that already exist in nature,” she said.
“I take a lot of inspiration from historical art, both from Europe and the Middle East, since the pigments they used were extracted from natural sources and were perfectly saturated.”
Almasoud’s painting of a man selling ramsi tomatoes, the seasonal heirloom fruits with green ‘shoulders’ found in Qatif. (Supplied)
She enjoys experimenting with new mediums, but drawing with a pencil is her preferred choice.
“I also do enjoy the occasional challenge of an ink brush, because once it sets its bristles on paper, you cannot go back. When it comes to painting with color (watercolors, acrylics, oils), I still consider myself in the process of learning,” she said.
The warm morning sun, the singing of the birds, the stoplights and the people. I am surrounded by life and I do my best to pour what I see into my work.
Dana Almasoud, Saudi artist
“I also experiment with pyrography, doll making, embroidery, linoleum block printing and, soon, murals.”
Almasoud said one of her first works inspired by Saudi culture was a commission from a man who wanted to look like an orientalist.
Almasoud’s painting of a man selling ramsi tomatoes, the seasonal heirloom fruits with green ‘shoulders’ found in Qatif. (Supplied)
Her most recent painting is of a man selling ramsi tomatoes, the seasonal heirloom fruits with green “shoulders” that are prevalent in Qatif.
“These tomatoes are known for a special flavor and a lot of farmers from various lands tried to grow it themselves, but to no avail. For some reason, these tomatoes only taste special when they grow on that specific piece of land,” Almasoud said.
She said she had been told her work had “a layer of fog, where the edges are never harsh,” which reflects the high levels of humidity in the Eastern Province where she lives.
“I can see the Arabian Gulf from the window of my room. You can imagine the high rates of humidity, which is where I think that layer came from,” she said.
“I will always wonder how this translated into what I draw, but regardless, I do love it.”
Almasoud said her art was an attempt to fill the void that excess simplicity and minimalism has created in recent years.
“My art is an attempt to inspire people back to see the beauty in complexity and the intricacy of the small things in life.”
Speaking about the importance of art in the modern world, she said: “With the increase in the pace of the world, art has become even more important. It gives people and their minds something to hang on to, for them to not lose themselves and their identities in a busy world.”
For more information about the artist visit @esotericdana on Instagram.
Carpets, sugar, spice: Wonders of Iran beckon visitors to Boulevard World
Riyadh Season’s zone is vibrant representation of country’s rich heritage
Updated 03 November 2024
Rahaf Jambi
RIYADH: Riyadh Season’s zone Boulevard World recently unveiled its Iranian area, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of its culture.
The space showcases a diverse array of Iranian cuisine, traditional crafts, and cultural performances, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.
As visitors approach the area they are greeted by an ambiance that will transport them to Iran. The floating Iranian rugs and fountain adorned with a renowned Iranian statue set the stage for a memorable experience.
The area offers a real feast for the senses, with lively dance shows and music that celebrate the heritage of the historic culture.
Among the culinary delights, guests can savor lavashak, an Iranian sweet that has gained popularity for its flavor and texture.
The area also gives visitors the chance to purchase high-quality saffron, a prized spice.
Visitors can explore an exquisite selection of Iranian rugs, meticulously crafted and imported directly from the country.
Fattah Ali, the owner of an Iranian rug business featured in the area, said he was excited to be returning for a second year to Riyadh Season.
Ali told Arab News: “Iranian carpets come from various regions of the country, including Tabriz, Isfahan, and Shiraz. Each area has its unique designs and patterns. We also offer framed artworks created by skilled artisans.”
He spoke of the cultural significance of Iranian carpets, noting that they are often considered valuable investments to be passed down through the generations.
He added: “Many Saudi customers appreciate the craftsmanship, and while the younger generation may need time to understand their value, I frequently hear from patrons whose families have cherished carpets for decades.”
Visitors can also view wall panels and artwork reminiscent of features in traditional Iranian homes, as well as witness Iranian calligraphers creating works that reflect the artistic heritage of the country.
The immersive experience allows guests to appreciate the intricate details and stories behind each piece.
Boulevard World aims to be an accessible destination for everyone, with entry tickets priced at SR30 ($8) on weekends and SR20 on weekdays.
Boulevard World is a celebration of global diversity. The area has expanded this season with the addition of five new zones representing Saudi Arabia, Africa, Turkiye, Iran, and Courchevel, France.
The overall area has grown by 30 percent and now encompasses 22 distinct zones from countries across the globe.
The areas of Egypt, Spain, and Italy now boast 21 new events, catering to varied interests, from theatrical performances to traveling shows.
The Iranian area stands out as a vibrant representation of the country’s rich heritage, offering a unique opportunity to engage with its culture through food, art, and its community.
Frankly Speaking: Does Riyadh prefer Trump or Harris?
Saudi commentator Ali Shihabi says Kingdom does not have a favorite but is looking to work closely with whichever candidate wins to help resolve the Middle East conflict
Updated 04 November 2024
Arab News
DUBAI: Saudi Arabia does not have a favorite in the US presidential race, and would enjoy strong relations with either Republican Donald Trump or Democrat Kamala Harris, Saudi political commentator Ali Shihabi has said.
According to him, the Kingdom’s priority is to use its relationship with Washington to address pressing regional issues, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
“I think the Kingdom is in a very advantageous position of having excellent ties with both parties,” Shihabi said on the Arab News current affairs program “Frankly Speaking” just days before American voters are due to go to the polls.
“Either option works out well for the Kingdom, which is quite a unique state of affairs really in situations like this.”
Combo image showing Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris (L) at a campaign rally in Reno, Nevada, on Oct.31, 2024, and former Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump (R) at a campaign rally in Allentown, Pennsylvania, on Oct. 29, 2024. (AFP)
Shihabi said Saudi Arabia may have historically leaned more toward the Republican Party, but the situation is different this time around, as in recent years the Kingdom’s relationship with the Democrats has vastly improved.
“Things have gone very well with the Democrats — not well early on, as everybody knows,” he added, referring to President Joe Biden’s threat to make Saudi Arabia “the pariah that they are” when he was campaigning for the presidency in 2019.
However, “the Ukraine-Russian war helped drive home the strategic importance of the Kingdom,” compelling the Biden administration to reassess its stance and to view Saudi Arabia as a stabilizing influence in the region, Shihabi said.
“Now, really, the relationship is as good as it could be at a deep institutional level,” he told “Frankly Speaking” host Katie Jensen. “And that would be expected to continue with a new Democratic administration.
“A new Democratic administration would be expected to carry on and adopt a lot of, if not all, the work that the previous Biden-Harris administration carried out. “At the same time, there’s a very warm relationship with Mr. Trump and the people around him. So it really works out well for the Kingdom either way. And that’s not a usual situation.
“Usually there has been a preference for Republicans, and ties have been closer under Republican administrations. But I think in this case it works out well, whoever wins.”
Ali Shihabi is an author and commentator on the politics and economics of Saudi Arabia. (AN photo by Abdulrahman bin Shalhoub)
Shihabi said recognition of the Kingdom’s strategic importance in the Middle East has established it as a key partner for Washington, regardless of which party is in power.
Likewise, Saudi Arabia is looking to the US, no matter which candidate wins, to help resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The Kingdom has taken significant steps to advance the two-state solution, having launched a global coalition in September for this purpose. Shihabi believes US involvement is essential for any long-term success.
“America is an essential component and American pressure is an essential component,” he said. “Without the US, efforts to push Israel toward a meaningful solution may struggle to gain traction, given that Washington holds unique leverage over Israel.”
Shihabi said the attitude of the US toward Israeli actions will significantly impact the prospects for peace. “Unfortunately, the Biden administration wasn’t very strong or decisive with Israel,” he added, underscoring the need for firmer American resolve.
Just a few months ago, a historic US-Saudi security pact appeared to be imminent. At that time, bilateral relations appeared poised for a transformative agreement that could have included normalization with Israel.
However, the Oct. 7 Hamas attack that led to Israel’s invasion of Gaza is seen as having reshaped the political landscape, making such an agreement and Saudi-Israeli normalization unlikely in the near term. “It’s probably completely off the table for the time being, unless there’s a dramatic shift in the attitude of the Israeli government,” said Shihabi.
While a formal pact may be postponed, Shihabi believes the talks have already yielded closer security ties between the US and Saudi Arabia. “I think the discussions with America on that file have brought the Kingdom and America very close in sort of a de-facto security arrangement that isn’t a de-jure one yet,” he said.
Shihabi, who is an author and commentator on the politics and economics of Saudi Arabia, believes the next US administration — whether led by Trump or Harris — is likely to revisit the normalization talks. Indeed, both candidates have shown interest in brokering peace deals, and Saudi Arabia’s strategic importance in the Middle East ensures that these discussions will remain relevant.
However, Shihabi said much will depend on the next US administration’s willingness to press Israel toward meaningful concessions for the Palestinians. “The Israelis may be miscalculating if they think that Mr. Trump will be completely in their hands,” he said, hinting that the former president’s potential unpredictability could lead to renewed pressure on Israel if he returns to office.
“At the same time, the Harris administration will be inheriting a tremendous amount of work that the Harris-Biden administration carried out. So I think both parties will continue to pursue this file.”
During a recent roundtable with journalists ahead of last month’s BRICS Summit, Russian President Vladimir Putin said the US bore responsibility for the worsening Israeli-Palestinian conflict, attributing it to what he called American monopolization of the peace process.
Asked if Russia has enough leverage to deliver a miracle that the Middle East desperately needs, Shihabi said: “No. Unfortunately, I don’t think so.” He believes it is ultimately American pressure that has the greatest impact on Israel.
“Whether it’s part of the Quartet or whether it’s not part of the Quartet, it boils down to the backbone that an American president has in standing up to the Israelis,” he said, referring to the joint peace efforts of the US, UN, EU and Russia.
Shihabi cited past examples where US presidents exerted influence over Israel, such as when President Dwight D. Eisenhower forced Israel to withdraw from Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula in 1956, and when George H. W. Bush offered conditional loans in the 1990s.
While these instances are rare, Shihabi said, they demonstrate that US influence can shift Israeli policy when applied decisively. He remains skeptical that the current Israeli government, with its hardline stance, will make concessions without firm American intervention.
This challenge places considerable responsibility on Washington, as “the only party that has real muscle with Israel is America,” he said. “The problem is, sometimes it’s Israel that has muscle in America and not the other way around.
“The Israelis are very strong in America. They have a very strong lobbying operation. They exert enormous influence through a variety of means.
“It’s very rare that you get an American administration that takes out the stick to put the Israelis back into line. It may happen. I wouldn’t give it a huge amount of hope, but it’s not impossible.”
One of the more surprising developments of this election cycle is the shifting support of Arab-American voters, who according to a recent Arab News-YouGov poll are drawn by a 2 percent margin to Trump over Harris.
Shihabi said the finding likely reflects the voter group’s disillusionment with the current administration’s approach to Israel. “They’re confused, obviously, because the Biden administration has been very weak-kneed with the Israelis, and hasn’t been exerting enough influence or been adequately restraining them,” he added.
Despite Trump’s history of supporting Israel, Arab-American voters appear to believe he might take a stronger stance on the Palestinian issue if reelected. Shihabi believes this sentiment has something to do with Trump’s reputation as a dealmaker and his unpredictable approach to international affairs.
Ali Shihabi, an author and commentator on the politics and economics of Saudi Arabia, speaks with Frankly Speaking host Katie Jensen. (AN photo by Abdulrahman bin Shalhoub)
“There’s that sense among some people that Trump may surprise us because he’s a strong individual; he doesn’t like to be pushed around,” Shihabi said. “He’ll be in his final term, and he loves making deals, and he’d love to solve the Middle Eastern question.
“I think the Israelis may find that they don’t get what they exactly wished for if Mr. Trump wins … He may surprise us all.”
Arab Americans have shown particular concern for the situation in Gaza, with polls indicating the issue ranks higher in importance than domestic matters such as healthcare or the economy.
According to Shihabi, the focus on Gaza revealed by the survey is a reflection of the emotional and cultural impact the conflict has had on Arab-American voters. “There’s been such wanton criminality in the way that the Israelis have behaved, and such intense human suffering, that it’s affected them like it’s affected so many other people,” he said.
The potential influence of the Arab-American vote may come into play in swing states such as Michigan, where even a small margin could sway the outcome. “It’ll be very nice if the Arab-American vote ends up making an impact, either way, because that will show that the Arab Americans are beginning to develop some political muscle,” Shihabi said.
While it remains uncertain whether their votes will tip the scales, he added, the predicted increased voter turnout among Arab Americans indicates a growing political awareness and engagement within the community.
With the leads enjoyed by Harris and Trump in different polls still razor thin, Shihabi would not be drawn on who he thought will be the likely winner. “It’s a coin toss as to which one of them will win,” he said. “We’ll just have to wait.”
By participating in the forum, the municipality reinforces its commitment to strengthening regional and international partnerships
Updated 03 November 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: The municipality of Riyadh will take part in the 12th World Urban Forum, organized by the UN Human Settlements Programme in Cairo, from Nov. 4-8.
It will showcase the Kingdom’s role in sustainable urban development, aligned with Vision 2030 goals, including urban planning, reducing visual pollution, and enhancing environmental, health, and urban sustainability standards.
The municipality will also highlight the Kingdom’s achievements in sustainable urban goals across various sectors, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.
Focus areas include comprehensive urban planning, sustainable transportation, community engagement, waste management, green spaces, and solutions to environmental challenges.
These initiatives aim to create resilient, inclusive urban communities that make use of local innovations to enhance quality of life and protect the environment.
Additionally, the municipality will emphasize its strategic focus on urban development, infrastructure innovation, and sustainability through AI, data analysis, and project management to build a sustainable urban model that meets the demands of modern cities worldwide.
By participating in the forum, the municipality reinforces its commitment to strengthening regional and international partnerships.
Saudi Arabia promotes cultural dialogue as Paris hosts Arab Week
Arab Week at UNESCO features 22 spaces dedicated to Arab countries, each showcasing different aspects of Arab culture
Updated 03 November 2024
Arab News
RIYADH: Arab Week will open on Monday at the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization headquarters in Paris, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The two-day event plays a significant role in advancing Arab and international cultural and civilizational efforts, contributing to the progress of education, culture, and science at both regional and global levels.
This is the first time in over half a century that Arab countries have organized an Arab Week at UNESCO. The event is spearheaded by the Kingdom’s Saudi National Committee for Education, Culture, and Science, which reinforces the Kingdom’s position regarding cultural dialogue and coexistence.
The event celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Arab world through literature and the arts. It also provides opportunities for intercultural dialogue, with all Arab countries showcasing the richness and diversity of Arab culture, promoting intercultural understanding, and contributing to cultural development.
Arab Week at UNESCO features 22 spaces dedicated to Arab countries, each showcasing different aspects of Arab culture. Seven seminars will focus on topics such as the Arabic language, Arabic calligraphy, Arabic literature, AI, education, fine arts, intangible cultural heritage, and world heritage.
Musical performances, handicrafts, Arab fashion, and Arab cuisine will also be on show.
Visitors will be able to explore a cultural exhibition, an Arabic calligraphy exhibition, a photography exhibition of heritage sites in the Arab world, and an exhibition of Arab cultural products.
The committee’s work aims to represent the Kingdom in regional and international organizations concerned with education, culture, communication, and information.
It focuses on preparing and providing support for cooperation with international and non-profit organizations, building communication bridges, and leveraging all capabilities to foster initiatives that enhance cultural dialogue between Arab countries and the rest of the world.
Arab Week has received the support and endorsement of Arab countries, and will highlight their historical diversity and cultural pluralism, as well as their values rooted in a rich cultural and civilizational heritage.
Minister says 50 percent drop in road deaths highlights Kingdom’s commitment to safety standards
Updated 03 November 2024
Waad Hussain
RIYADH: Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics Saleh Al-Jasser inaugurated the Road Safety and Sustainability Conference and Exhibition in Riyadh on Sunday.
The two-day event, themed “Innovating for Tomorrow,” is organized by the General Authority for Roads together with the International Road Federation, and has attracted over 1,000 specialists from more than 50 countries, including major global companies.
Al-Jasser, who is also the chairman of the General Authority for Roads, said that the number of deaths on the Kingdom's roads has decreased by nearly 50 percent, exceeding the targets set in the National Transport and Logistics Strategy introduced in 2021.
In his speech, the minister also praised the Kingdom’s efforts to elevate road safety standards and enhance sustainability.
Al-Jasser said that the Kingdom ranked fourth among the G20 countries in the Road Quality Index, confirming its leadership in achieving the highest standards of safety and quality on roads.
The conference emphasizes Saudi Arabia’s global standing in the roads sector. Key projects under the National Transport and Logistics Strategy have improved road safety and reduced fatalities, affirming the Kingdom’s commitment to safety.
Saudi Arabia has introduced initiatives to preserve road infrastructure, including performance-based contracts for greater transparency, spending efficiency, and service standards, aligning with Vision 2030.
Following the inauguration, a ministerial session titled “Road Safety: Innovation and Lessons Learned” gathered officials from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Georgia, Cyprus, and Nepal to discuss policy-driven solutions for road safety, emissions reduction, and sustainable infrastructure.
The conference features over 130 scientific papers and 27 innovative technologies on sustainable transport, including advancements in AI and smart transport systems for traffic management, vehicle safety, and environmental impact reduction.
An exhibition with 20 organizations showcases innovations in AI, smart transport, and sustainable mobility.
The conference offers a platform for global experts to share insights, best practices, and the transformative role of emerging technologies in road safety and transport.
