Sculpting Identities

WHAT ORIGINALLY INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN ARTIST, AND WHEN DID YOU FIRST BEGIN PURSUING ART SERIOUSLY?

Growing up in an art studio surrounded by my father’s paintings was a truly special experience. Witnessing my father’s pioneering work in the Arab art world had a profound impact on me, shaping both my artistic approach and my outlook on life. From an early age, I felt a magnetic pull towards sculpture. There was something inherently captivating about working with stubborn materials and the immense satisfaction that came from conquering their challenges. I immersed myself in the exploration of various mediums, delving into the intricate realms of metals, glass, bronze, clay, granite, and marble. Each material possessed its own unique properties and presented its own set of hurdles, which endlessly fascinated me. My sculptures serve as a medium for self-expression, reflecting my thoughts and experiences within contemporary society. Through them, I seek to offer a commentary on the human condition, delving into the profound issues that surround us.

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR ARTISTIC STYLE AND HOW IT HAS DEVELOPED OVER THE YEARS?

My artistic style has evolved over the years as I’ve honed my skills and explored new avenues of creativity. Initially influenced by my father’s work, I was drawn to a fusion of traditional and contemporary elements in my early artistic endeavors. In the early stages of my artistic journey, I experimented with various techniques and styles, eager to find my own voice within the vast world of art. I delved into realism, capturing intricate details and striving for accuracy in my sculptures. However, as time went on, I found myself yearning for a deeper level of expression and a more personal connection with my art. As I gained experience and confidence, my style gradually shifted towards a more expressive and abstract approach. I began to emphasize the emotional impact of my sculptures, exploring the interplay between form, texture, and movement. I found that by focusing on the essence of a subject rather than its literal representation, I could evoke a stronger response and create a more thought-provoking experience for viewers. In recent years, I’ve delved into the intersection of different mediums, merging elements of recycled stainless steel and hand-sculpted glass. This amalgamation creates a captivating interplay between the robustness embodied by stainless steel and the delicate nature of the intricately crafted glass. By fusing these contrasting materials, I seek to evoke a powerful juxtaposition and explore the harmonious balance between strength and fragility. This interdisciplinary approach has been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of my artistic practice and unlocking new dimensions of creativity. It has opened up exciting possibilities for experimentation and expanded the expressive range of my sculptures.

WHAT WAS YOUR MOST CHALLENGING PROJECT TO DATE?

One of the most challenging projects I have undertaken to date was the creation of the “Athar” monument. It was a collaborative effort that celebrated the remarkable achievements of Bahraini women. To bring this vision to life, I approached BFG International, a renowned company known for its expertise in complex threedimensional structures and advanced composite materials. Working closely with BFG International, I encountered various complexities throughout the project. We had to fabricate and erect the monument using precision-molded shapes made from advanced materials. The durability of the sculpture was of utmost importance, especially considering the harsh environmental conditions it would face. BFG International’s specialized knowledge and proficiency in handling such intricate tasks proved invaluable, enabling us to complete the monument in an impressively short timeframe of less than two weeks. The fusion of art and engineering presented its own unique challenges. My goal was to create an artwork that not only showcased the achievements of Bahraini women but also served as a symbol of empowerment and inspiration. Collaborating with a team of artists, engineers, and fabricators was instrumental in bringing this vision to fruition.

YOUR WORK HAS BEEN FEATURED IN GALLERIES AND EXHIBITIONS AROUND THE WORLD. CAN YOU TALK ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE EXHIBITING YOUR ART INTERNATIONALLY?

Exhibiting my art internationally has been an incredibly enriching and fulfilling experience. It has provided me with the opportunity to share my artistic vision and engage with diverse audiences from different cultural backgrounds. The exposure to international galleries and exhibitions has opened doors to new perspectives, collaborations, and artistic dialogue that have greatly influenced my artistic growth. One of the most rewarding aspects of exhibiting internationally is the chance to connect with people from various cultures and communities. Art has a unique way of transcending language barriers and fostering meaningful connections. It has been truly inspiring to witness how viewers from different parts of the world engage with my artwork, bringing their own interpretations and experiences to the table. The conversations, feedback, and discussions sparked by my exhibitions have expanded my own understanding of art’s impact and its ability to resonate universally. Exhibiting internationally has also allowed me to explore and adapt my work to different exhibition spaces and contexts. Each gallery or exhibition venue presents its own unique characteristics and requirements, and I have learned to navigate and adapt my art to suit these diverse environments. This adaptability has challenged me to think critically about presentation, installation, and curation, ultimately enhancing my artistic versatility. Participating in international exhibitions has provided opportunities for collaboration and artistic exchange with fellow artists and professionals from around the world. Networking and connecting with artists, curators, and art enthusiasts has broadened my artistic horizons and exposed me to new ideas, techniques, and perspectives. These interactions have influenced my artistic practice, pushing me to continually evolve and explore new avenues of creative expression. The exposure gained through international exhibitions has also been instrumental in establishing my presence in the global art scene. It has opened doors to new opportunities, such as collaborations, residencies, and commissions, further expanding the reach and impact of my art. The recognition and validation received from international exhibitions have been invaluable in building my artistic career and fostering longlasting connections within the art community. However, exhibiting internationally also comes with its own set of challenges. Logistics, such as shipping artwork, coordinating installations, and navigating customs procedures, can be complex and require careful planning and coordination. Additionally, cultural differences and unfamiliar art scenes may present new considerations when it comes to marketing, audience engagement, and understanding local art dynamics. Nonetheless, these challenges have been valuable learning experiences that have enriched my artistic journey.

HOW DOES YOUR WORK REFLECT YOUR PERSONAL AND CULTURAL IDENTITY?

My work is deeply intertwined with both my personal identity and cultural heritage. It serves as a reflection of who I am as an individual and how I navigate the world around me, while also drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of my cultural background. As an artist, my personal experiences, emotions, and perspectives shape the themes, concepts, and narratives that emerge in my artwork. My sculptures often explore universal themes such as identity, human connection, and the human condition. Through my creative expression, I aim to convey my own thoughts, reflections, and observations about life, society, and the complexities of the human experience. At the same time, my cultural identity is an integral part of my artistic practice. I draw inspiration from the cultural heritage and traditions that have shaped me. Growing up in a particular cultural context, I have been exposed to a wealth of artistic expressions, traditional craftsmanship, and historical narratives.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR ASPIRING ARTISTS IN BAHRAIN AND BEYOND?

To Remember that the path of an artist is a personal and transformative one. Embrace the journey, trust your instincts, and create art that reflects your true self. Stay passionate, curious, and dedicated to your craft. With perseverance, continuous growth, and a commitment to your artistic vision, you can make a meaningful impact in the art world and beyond.

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT TO SEE FROM YOU IN THE FUTURE, AND WHAT UPCOMING PROJECTS DO YOU HAVE IN STORE?

In the future, you can expect to see a continuation of my artistic exploration and growth. I am dedicated to expanding my artistic practice, pushing boundaries, and creating meaningful and thought-provoking artwork. As an artist, I am committed to engaging with diverse themes, experimenting with various mediums, and exploring innovative techniques. I will continue to exhibit my artwork in galleries and participate in exhibitions both locally and internationally. These opportunities allow me to connect with a wider audience, share my creative vision, and invite viewers to experience my art firsthand. Collaboration will also remain an important aspect of my artistic journey. Working with fellow artists, designers, and creative professionals allows me to explore new perspectives, learn from different disciplines, and create interdisciplinary projects that challenge traditional boundaries. Additionally, I am open to exploring public art installations and site-specific projects. Bringing art into public spaces allows for a unique interaction between artwork, environment, and the community. I am passionate about creating installations that inspire dialogue, spark curiosity, and leave a lasting impact. Continuing education and skill development are also vital for me as an artist. I will actively seek opportunities to expand my knowledge, learn new techniques, and engage with emerging trends in the art world. This continuous learning process fuels my artistic growth and enables me to evolve as an artist. As technology advances, I am open to incorporating digital elements and exploring the intersection of art and technology. Embracing new mediums and technologies allows for innovative approaches and expands the possibilities of artistic expression. Ultimately, my aim is to create art that resonates with viewers on a personal and universal level. I want to evoke emotions, challenge perceptions, and provoke thoughtful contemplation.