Shattering expectations: Saudi artist’s journey into glass art

The intricate details that appear when glass breaks inspired Saudi artist Aseel Al-Maghlouth to create shapes and visuals. (Supplied)
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The intricate details that appear when glass breaks inspired Saudi artist Aseel Al-Maghlouth to create shapes and visuals. (Supplied)
Shattering expectations: Saudi artist’s journey into glass art
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Aseel Al-Maghlouth has gained significant recognition on social media, where his works are widely admired. (Supplied)
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Updated 22 December 2024
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Shattering expectations: Saudi artist’s journey into glass art

The intricate details that appear when glass breaks inspired Saudi artist Aseel Al-Maghlouth to create shapes and visuals.
  • Aseel Al-Maghlouth breaks glass to break through in the local art scene

RIYADH: Saudi artist Aseel Al-Maghlouth is hammering a niche for himself by using glass as his canvas.

He stumbled upon the technique while working on his graduation project in mechanical engineering. “I discovered the potential to employ broken glass to create distinctive artistic designs,” he told Arab News.  

The intricate details that appear when glass breaks inspired him to create shapes and visuals and developed a technique that reflected his artistic vision.




Al-Maghlouth turns broken glass into stunning art, showcasing the beauty in fragility and redefining artistic norms. (Supplied)

Al-Maghlouth had a love for drawing from a young age, but it was not until he discovered his ability to express ideas in unconventional ways that his true passion for art crystallized.

“I have always drawn inspiration from the surrounding nature and the intricate details of daily life,” he said. This connection to his environment, combined with his experiences in exploring artworks, helped shape his unique style.  

He finds beauty in the mundane and translates that into his creations, often using glass to convey emotions and narratives that might resonate with viewers.

HIGHLIGHT

By embracing the fragility of glass and transforming it into something beautiful, Saudi artist Aseel Al-Maghlouth challenges perceptions of what art can be.

Al-Maghlouth has gained significant recognition on social media, where his works are widely admired.

This newfound fame has allowed him to sell his works and create custom pieces for clients, including various artists and celebrities. “Creating for such esteemed individuals is an honor, and it motivates me to push my artistic boundaries,” he said.




"Each painting has its own place and story that distinguishes it.” (Supplied)

“The best work I own is the painting of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Frankly, I consider it the most valuable painting I have ever owned, but I refuse to sell it because it was a special gift from me to the crown prince,” he said.

“I have received many offers but I refuse to sell it. As for the rest of my paintings, I prefer not to mention the prices because the value of art for me is not limited to a number. Each painting has its own place and story that distinguishes it.”

One of the greatest challenges Al-Maghlouth faced as an artist was transforming his creations into messages that resonated with his audience. “The biggest challenge was ensuring that my art conveyed a clear idea,” he said.

I want to highlight the beauty of arts in our Saudi culture and connect it with Saudi Vision 2030.

Aseel Al-Maghlouth, Saudi artist

Through experimentation with the nature of glass fractures and the control of his technique, he minimized errors and created pieces that told meaningful stories.

Each strike of the hammer is deliberate, aimed at producing not just a fragment but a narrative that can be interpreted and appreciated by those who view it.

“I want to highlight the beauty of arts in our Saudi culture and connect it with Saudi Vision 2030,” he added, emphasizing the importance of cultural representation in his work.

Al-Maghlouth’s vision for the future is ambitious. He aspires to participate in international exhibitions, representing Saudi Arabia on a global stage. “I dream of organizing a personal exhibition in Riyadh to showcase my works and exchange inspiration with other artists,” he said.

For emerging artists, Al-Maghlouth has simple yet profound advice: “Don’t be afraid of trial and error. Each piece of art reflects a part of you.”

He encourages newcomers to continue developing and learning from every experience, and emphasizes the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges.

His journey is testament to the idea that creativity flourishes in an environment where risks are taken and failures viewed as stepping stones rather than obstacles.

Al-Maghlouth’s work serves as a reminder that art can emerge from the most unexpected materials and methods, encouraging others to explore their creativity without constraints.

By embracing the fragility of glass and transforming it into something beautiful, he challenges perceptions of what art can be.

Al-Maghlouth remains committed to honoring the stories behind each piece, proving that even the most broken fragments can come together to create something truly extraordinary.

 


Saudi Arabia now 66 percent self-sufficient in grape production: MEWA 

Saudi Arabia now 66 percent self-sufficient in grape production: MEWA 
Updated 16 March 2025
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Saudi Arabia now 66 percent self-sufficient in grape production: MEWA 

Saudi Arabia now 66 percent self-sufficient in grape production: MEWA 
  • National production in 2023 exceeded 122,000 tonnes
  • 7.13 million grapes planted in over 4,720 hectares of land 

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's grape production surpassed 122,000 tonnes in 2023, reflecting the growth of the local agricultural sector and its ability to meet a big portion of market demands, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported Saturday.

The figure accounts for 66 percent of current market demand in the Kingdom, said the report, citing a statement by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, or MEWA.

MEWA said more than 7.13 million grape plants, with more than 6.1 million bearing fruit. 

Grape farming is considered profitable because of the ease of cultivation in various soils with minimal water requirements and the plant’s adaptabilty to various climates in the Kingdom. (SPA)

In a separate report last year, the ministry reported a grape production area of 4,720 hectares across the Kingdom.

The same report highlighted Tabuk as the top grape-producing region, yielding 46,939 tonnes annually, adding that Qassim, Hail, and Asir also contributed significantly to the national production.

Grape farming is considered profitable because of the ease of cultivation in various soils with minimal water requirements. The plant could easily adapt to various climates in Saudi Arabia. 

To encourage farmers to plant grapes, the ministry has assured its continuing efforts to support and empower them by providing modern technologies, such as smart irrigation systems and organic farming.

The ministry also aims to encourage increased local fruit consumption, saying that grapes are packed with nutrients, and have health benefits.

The harvest season for grapes is from June to September, the ministry said.


Recycled ihrams promoting eco-friendly pilgrimage

Recycled ihrams promoting eco-friendly pilgrimage
Updated 15 March 2025
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Recycled ihrams promoting eco-friendly pilgrimage

Recycled ihrams promoting eco-friendly pilgrimage
  • Sustainable Ihram initiative launched by Culture Ministry
  • Tonnes have been recycled, says Fashion Commission CEO

JEDDAH: With the arrival of Ramadan and many Muslims from around the world performing Umrah, a compulsory garment for male worshippers is the ihram, a simple, white garment symbolizing purity, unity and devotion.

The ihram is a critical part of the Umrah and Hajj experience, consisting of two pieces of unstitched cloth.

The Ministry of Culture’s Fashion Commission recently introduced its Sustainable Ihram initiative, which focuses on recycling and repurposing used ihrams.

The ihram is a critical part of the Umrah and Hajj experience, consisting of two pieces of unstitched cloth. (Anadolu via Getty Images/SPA)

The project aims to not only honor sacred Islamic traditions but also contribute to the protection of the planet by embracing eco-friendly solutions.

Previously used garments are transformed into new, sustainable ihrams through a circular, textile recycling system.

The initiative is a collaboration with the Saudi Investment Recycling Co. and the eco-fashion firm Tadweem.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Tadweem is a Saudi eco-friendly company focused on improving sustainability in the fashion industry through initiatives such as textile recycling.

• Saudi Arabia’s Fashion Commission and Tadweem installed 336 collection bins in Mina to gather several tonnes of ihrams, and worked with partners to transform them into new fabric.

It aims to promote sustainable practices, raise consumer awareness about fashion recycling, and support the development of a circular textile economy in Saudi Arabia.

The project aims to not only honor sacred Islamic traditions but also contribute to the protection of the planet by embracing eco-friendly solutions. (SPA)

Recognizing that millions of ihrams are manufactured and discarded annually, the commission identified an opportunity to reduce the large volume of textile waste.

Burak Cakmak, CEO of the Saudi Fashion Commission, told Arab News: “Ihram is not the first thing that comes to mind when you think of fashion, but at the same time, it’s a product that is sold and used in volumes, repeated every year, especially during Hajj.”

He continued: “We wanted to create the first circular product in the country, and what better way to start than with ihram, a textile deeply linked to Saudi Arabia’s religious and cultural heritage.”

The ihram is a critical part of the Umrah and Hajj experience, consisting of two pieces of unstitched cloth. (Anadolu via Getty Images/SPA)

“To make this possible, we installed 336 collection bins in Mina, gathered several tonnes of ihrams, and worked with partners to transform them into new fabric, creating a fully circular process,” Cakmak explained.

The collected garments underwent a meticulous recycling process: sorting, cleaning, shredding, and reweaving into fresh ihrams, which “pilgrims can use with a deeper sense of purpose.”

“There is no better way to do this than for your religious pilgrimage, where you want to focus on spirituality, the core values of purity, and ensure that the product you wear represents how pure your thoughts are as you go through that journey,” Cakmak said.

We wanted to create the first circular product in the country, and what better way to start than with ihram, a textile deeply linked to Saudi Arabia’s religious and cultural heritage.

Burak Cakmak, Fashion Commission CEO

Mustafa Bukhari, the CEO of Tadweem, told Arab News about their production process. “Currently, manufacturing is done outside Saudi Arabia, but our plans include moving the manufacturing operations inside the Kingdom.”

Tadweem is a Saudi Arabia eco-friendly company focused on improving sustainability in the fashion industry through initiatives such as textile recycling.

For this project, the ihrams were converted into raw materials in Dubai, sent to Turkiye for manufacturing, and then returned to the Kingdom.

Burak Cakmak, Fashion Commission CEO

“We have ensured that the entire product is made from recycled materials, including the packaging and bags used, with no environmentally harmful materials,” Bukhari said.

He added: “The main material is recycled cotton, which we used in the ihrams and even in the packaging, where we also made the packaging bags from recycled cotton, ensuring the environmental sustainability of the entire product.”

At the Jeddah Hajj and Umrah conference held in January this year, Tadweem showcased how the fabric from recycled ihrams was incorporated into high-quality leather bags.

Priced at SR98 ($25.98), the ihrams are currently available in Madinah, with the distribution to be expanded to Makkah, major airports, and other regions in the future.

They will also be available via a dedicated store for sustainable ihrams in the Kingdom, and at the Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah, which runs until May 25.

Cakmak said: “The hope is that we are highlighting the importance of sustainability not just through art and creativity, but through everyday products that people can adopt.

“This is about offering a conscious choice, aligning the spiritual journey with sustainability.”

 


Spirituality meets sustainability at Indian Consulate iftar in Jeddah

Ambassador of India to Saudi Arabia Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan spoke about the significance of Ramadan. (Supplied)
Ambassador of India to Saudi Arabia Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan spoke about the significance of Ramadan. (Supplied)
Updated 15 March 2025
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Spirituality meets sustainability at Indian Consulate iftar in Jeddah

Ambassador of India to Saudi Arabia Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan spoke about the significance of Ramadan. (Supplied)
  • The Indian ambassador, Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan, spoke about the significance of Ramadan, highlighting its values of reflection, compassion and service

JEDDAH: Warmth and unity reigned supreme at an iftar organized by the Consulate General of India in Jeddah to celebrate Ramadan.

The event featured organic flavors to highlight the theme of sustainability and brought together a distinguished group of guests including representatives of the Saudi government, diplomatic community, Indian diaspora, and leaders from sectors such as business, media and culture.

Consul General Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri reflected on 'Organic Iftar,' the theme of the evening. (Supplied)

The Indian ambassador, Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan, spoke about the significance of Ramadan, highlighting its values of reflection, compassion and service. He emphasized the strong ties between his country and the Kingdom, particularly in areas like trade, cultural exchange and sustainable development.

FASTFACTS

• The Indian ambassador, Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan, spoke about the significance of Ramadan, highlighting its values of reflection, compassion and service.

• Consul General Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri discussed the consulate’s focus on sustainability and the growing importance of organic farming in India and beyond.

Consul General Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri reflected on “Organic Iftar,” the theme of the evening, and discussed the consulate’s focus on sustainability and the growing importance of organic farming in India and beyond.

Indian Consulate’s iftar in Jeddah featured the theme of sustainability and emphasized the strong ties between Saudi Arabia and India. (Supplied)

The iftar featured a variety of dishes representing the rich flavors of India, made using organic ingredients to reflect not only a commitment to health and wellness but also to protect the environment for future generations.

These were supplied by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority, Government of India, with additional support from local partners like LuLu Group and Siafa Dates.

 


Al-Azm Mosque in AlUla latest to undergo restoration in crown prince project

Al-Azm Mosque in AlUla latest to undergo restoration in crown prince project
Updated 15 March 2025
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Al-Azm Mosque in AlUla latest to undergo restoration in crown prince project

Al-Azm Mosque in AlUla latest to undergo restoration in crown prince project
  • The mosque, which dates back more than 14 centuries to the era of the Prophet Muhammad, holds significant historical and religious importance

RIYADH: The second phase of the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historic Mosques has expanded to include the restoration of Al-Azm Mosque in AlUla, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

The mosque, which dates back more than 14 centuries to the era of the Prophet Muhammad, holds significant historical and religious importance.

It is believed that the Prophet Muhammad marked his direction of prayer at the site using bones while en route to the Battle of Tabuk in the ninth year of the Hijra, SPA added.

The renovation will be carried out in the traditional architectural style of Madinah, and will ensure the mosque can accommodate up to 580 worshippers.

The project will use natural materials, including clay, stone, and wood sourced from local trees. Historically built with stone and plastered interior walls, the mosque has undergone multiple architectural changes over the centuries.

A key feature of the restoration will be the use of cut stones of varying sizes, bonded with clay mortar, and palm tree components for roofing, providing both structural support and insulation, SPA reported.

The Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historic Mosques seeks to strike a balance between traditional craftsmanship and modern construction standards, ensuring the preservation of historic mosque elements while integrating sustainable development practices.

The restoration efforts are being carried out by Saudi firms specializing in heritage architecture.

Al-Azm Mosque’s updates come as part of a broader initiative, which in its second phase includes the rehabilitation of 30 mosques across all 13 regions of Saudi Arabia.

This phase follows the successful completion of the first phase, which restored 30 mosques across 10 regions.


KSrelief’s global efforts to empower women highlighted at UN session

KSrelief’s global efforts to empower women highlighted at UN session
Updated 16 March 2025
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KSrelief’s global efforts to empower women highlighted at UN session

KSrelief’s global efforts to empower women highlighted at UN session
  • KSrelief has implemented 1,072 projects to support women in 79 countries, at a total cost of more than $723 million

NEW YORK: Saudi aid agency KSrelief took part in a high-level session at UN Headquarters in New York City recently as part of the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women.

During the session, the agency highlighted its global efforts to empower women, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

KSrelief has implemented 1,072 projects to support women in 79 countries, at a total cost of more than $723 million.

The projects include vocational training programs and entrepreneurship support for Yemeni women, healthcare schemes, and initiatives to combat gender-based violence through awareness campaigns and survivor support programs.