The role of art and creative symbols in promoting national identity
A number of specialists and artists have affirmed that visual art plays a pivotal role in shaping societal awareness by portraying human reality and its issues in a compelling and easily understandable manner. In this context, the importance of creative symbols and colors as effective means of strengthening national identity is highlighted, with the assertion that creativity is no longer a mere luxury but a pressing necessity for building a psychologically and intellectually balanced individual. These affirmations coincided with the celebration of World Art Day, which underscores the importance of utilizing cultural heritage and visual elements linked to the nation's history to foster genuine dialogue with other cultures.
Art Through History: Authentic Roots that Contribute to Strengthening National Identity
The historical context of art in the Arabian Peninsula stretches back thousands of years, with rock carvings and traditional motifs being among the earliest forms of human expression. As societies evolved, contemporary visual art became an extension of this rich heritage. The celebration of World Art Day, observed annually on April 15th to commemorate the birth of Leonardo da Vinci, underscores the role of art in promoting tolerance and peace. In Saudi Arabia, this event aligns with ongoing efforts to connect younger generations with their history. Integrating heritage into contemporary artworks is a strategic step towards strengthening national identity and presenting it to the world in a modern form that remains true to its roots.
The holistic impact of the arts: from local to global
The impact of the art movement extends far beyond the local level, encompassing significant regional and international dimensions. Locally, art contributes to documenting collective memory and fostering the creative economy, aligning with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which has made culture and the arts a cornerstone for improving quality of life. Regionally, visual arts open avenues for cultural dialogue among the peoples of the Middle East, promoting mutual understanding. Internationally, the presence of Saudi artworks, rich in cultural symbolism, in global exhibitions represents a form of soft power, showcasing the Kingdom's cultural heritage, correcting stereotypes, and building bridges of human connection that transcend languages and borders.
Creativity gives voice to the unsaid
In an interview with Al-Youm newspaper, Professor Amal Abdulqader Basfar, Head of the Department of Islamic Arts at King Abdulaziz University, explained that art fosters discussion on important issues, expresses human emotions, and preserves identity and culture by transmitting heritage across generations. She further stated that practicing and appreciating art has a significant psychological and educational impact on children in kindergarten, helping them express feelings, develop imagination and creative thinking, and instill positive values such as patience and cooperation.
For her part, visual artist Maysaa Shaldan affirmed that art contributes to shaping consciousness because it not only explains but also evokes feeling; it transforms individual experience into a shared memory and gives people a way to express the unspeakable. She pointed out that the challenge in the digital world lies in the speed of consumption and the loss of depth, while the opportunity lies in accessibility and experimentation. She emphasized that the required balance is to spread without losing meaning. She stressed that art leaves a lasting impact on us, making us more human and connected to ourselves and others.
A visual language that touches the emotions and builds awareness
For her part, visual artist Mariam Al-Shamlawi explained that art is a visual language that touches the emotions. Through its creative symbols, colors, and experiences, it has become a means of discussing issues without the noise of words. She indicated that art is a safe space for individuals to express their feelings and to enhance their self-confidence, imagination, and aesthetic sense. It cultivates a psychologically balanced individual capable of humane communication, and it nurtures a child who grows up with a sensitive and appreciative mind, capable of recognizing spiritual beauty.
She pointed out that technology is a double-edged sword; if used intelligently, it can be a means to support creativity and an opportunity for unlimited global reach, but it is not a substitute for authenticity, which stems from profound human experience. She emphasized the necessity of protecting intellectual property and enacting laws to combat the ease of copying, affirming that art in our lives is a necessity, not an addition; it is a language of beauty and peace for building a present overflowing with awareness and humanity, and a fruitful future.
