Fine art in Qatif: 25 female artists create amidst nature
Coinciding with World Art Day, Tarout Oasis witnessed a unique cultural event, as Al-Jum'an Farm hosted 25 artists in an exceptional initiative organized by the Fine Arts Group. This event aimed to highlight the development of fine arts in Qatif, integrate emerging talents with experienced artists, and break down traditional barriers between creators and society by drawing inspiration from nature itself, away from closed walls.
Roots of Creativity: World Art Day and the History of the Oasis
This artistic event coincides with the celebration of World Art Day, observed annually on April 15th. This date was chosen by UNESCO to commemorate the birth of the brilliant artist Leonardo da Vinci, aiming to promote awareness of creative activity worldwide. In this context, the historical depth of the Qatif Oasis cannot be overlooked. Long known as a fertile ground for creativity thanks to its diverse environment, agricultural landscape, and rich maritime heritage, the oasis has been a constant source of inspiration for artists. The artistic movement there has been closely linked to documenting daily life, palm trees, and folklore, imbuing artworks with an authentic local character that tells the story of the people and the place.
New dimensions for the development of visual art in Qatif
The head of the Fine Arts Group, artist Souad Wakhik, explained that the core objective of this initiative is to break down the psychological and artistic barriers between artists and members of the community, and to bring art out of its confined spaces and into the vastness of nature. She noted that this year's edition was distinguished by an exceptional step: the integration of children and young people with established artists for the first time in the event's history. She emphasized that this integration aims to refine the talents of the new generation and instill confidence in them through direct interaction with those with extensive experience in the field, thus ensuring the sustainability and development of fine arts in the region.
From closed ceremonies to the open space of nature
Wakhik addressed the fundamental difference between painting within closed studios and creating in the open, natural environment, where the artist's inner resources and visual perception play a crucial role in interpreting the scene. She added that the participants used a variety of mediums, including oil paints, acrylics, and watercolors, as well as utilizing natural materials. Regarding the themes of the completed paintings, she explained that the works were inspired by the agricultural environment of Qatif and ranged from portraits and folklore to palm trees, relying on the natural interplay of light and shadow rather than simply copying photographs. She described the artistic practice as a sacred act for every artist, emphasizing the vital need for artists to celebrate their work.
Recycling and innovation in art schools
Amidst the diversity of artistic schools, visual artist and art teacher Zahra Al-Alawi highlighted her 26-year experience, which has culminated in the creation of a style that emulates the art of "Ethan" and metals using recycled materials. She explained that her works give the viewer a visual impression of solidity and the weight of metal, while in reality, they are lightweight and fragile pieces, giving her a unique signature in the art scene based on the recycling of cardboard, paper, and beads. These innovations were clearly demonstrated when an artist transformed ordinary cardboard into leaves and innovative artworks.
Societal impact and support for the Saudi cultural scene
The head of the group called for the continuation of comprehensive art exhibitions for all age groups and stressed the importance of increasing participation in art events and festivals, given their positive impact and the moral support they provide, contributing to the development of the arts and their accessibility to the public. This cultural movement's influence extends beyond the local level, reflecting the Kingdom's cultural heritage and aligning with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which prioritizes the culture and arts sector as a cornerstone for improving quality of life and strengthening national identity. For his part, Hassan Al-Jum'an, the farm's supervisor, expressed his pride in hosting this annual art event at his rural farm, extending his deep gratitude to the artists for their efforts and tangible contributions to serving the community and elevating public taste. He also expressed his continued support for this cultural movement.
