Saudi artist Wael Yousef: A creative journey from Aramco to drama
Saudi artist Wael Yousef revealed details of his inspiring artistic journey and the significant challenges he faced from the very beginning. He emphasized that the artistic environment in the past was not as conducive and supportive as it is today, but passion and determination were his strongest weapons in paving his way to achieving his dream and overcoming all obstacles.
Youssef explained that balancing his previous work at Aramco with the demands of filming was by no means easy. He noted that he meticulously managed his time, coordinating his schedule precisely with the directors to ensure commitment to both paths. He added that the professional challenges did not deter him; rather, they strengthened his resolve to pursue his artistic path, driven by a deep inner desire for expression and creativity.
The historical context of the development of drama and the career of Saudi artist Wael Youssef
The rise of Saudi artist Wael Yousef was not isolated from the broader context of the Kingdom's art scene. In past decades, Saudi drama faced production and social challenges that made pursuing a career in the arts a perilous undertaking. However, the radical transformations the Kingdom has recently undergone have contributed to reshaping the cultural landscape. This historical development has shifted art from individual efforts to a supported, institutionalized industry, paving the way for the emergence of talents capable of competing and producing content that reflects authentic Saudi identity with professionalism and expertise.
The experience of the series "Complex 75" and the portrayal of reality
Youssef discussed his unique experience in the series "Complex 75," where he portrayed the character "Walid," describing it as a complex character that develops within a long dramatic narrative spanning 250 episodes. The series explores the lives of five families living in a luxurious residential complex in Riyadh. He noted that the work reflects diverse social patterns, which allowed him greater scope to deliver a nuanced and richly detailed performance. Regarding the controversy surrounding the nature of the character, he explained that dramatic works are inseparable from their cultural and social context, emphasizing that his portrayal of the character maintained a balance between realism and respect for cultural sensitivities.
Regional and international impact of Saudi artistic production
The actor's willingness to embrace diverse experiences is a fundamental element in the development of Saudi drama, positively impacting the local and regional cultural landscape. Presenting contemporary social issues with sincerity fosters engagement with Arab audiences and opens broader avenues for discussion. On an international level, this cultural openness and the evolution of the arts sector attract diverse global experiences, enhancing learning opportunities and the exchange of expertise. This positions Saudi drama on the global competitive map, transforming it into an influential soft power that reflects the development of Saudi society.
An artistic career filled with continuous development efforts
Regarding his career, Youssef explained that he was keen to develop his skills by enrolling in several specialized courses in acting, theater and television directing, in addition to studying film criticism both within the Kingdom and abroad. He participated in a number of television dramas, including "Days of Mirage," "Abjad Hawaz," "Scholarship Students," "More Than Sisters," and "The Harbor," alongside his prominent theatrical work, such as the play "Imru' al-Qais," produced by the Ministry of Culture, and his participation in the Riyadh Season shows with the artist Nasser al-Qasabi in the play "His Life Has Been Long." He emphasized that talent is the starting point, but continuous learning is the decisive element in refining one's experience.
Society's view of the artist and overcoming limitations
In the context of social challenges, Youssef pointed out that some conservative families may view acting as an unconventional choice, placing the artist under pressure related to the family's image and standing. He cited past experiences in the artistic community, explaining that some artists were forced to use stage names instead of their real names to avoid social sensitivities, as was the case with the late artist Khaled Sami. He emphasized that these challenges have been, and continue to be, part of the journey for many artists, but they have not prevented them from persevering and achieving a strong presence in the artistic scene.
