Al-Athr showcases abstract and geometry inspired works of art

Jeddah’s Al-Athr Gallery is hosting the abstract and geometry inspired work of 40 local and international artists until Oct. 10.
The gallery opened its door in 2009 and has already displayed the work of some leading artists.
The theme of this exhibition is entitled “The Language of Human Consciousness,” and explores how artists over the years have interpreted and incorporated geometry in their work.
Chris Dercon, director of Tate Modern London, opened the exhibition and hosted a panel discussion on the subject with pioneering artists in the field including Rasheed Araeen, Dana Awartani, Saleh Barakati and Richard Deacon.
The panelists discussed the misunderstanding between abstract art and geometry, and how every culture interprets this subject matter in their own way.
Awartani, from Saudi Arabia, who specializes in this field, said using geometry in Islamic art is a type of prayer. Araeen, a Pakistani engineer turned artist, said understanding this art depends on one’s imagination. Barakati spoke about the work of the late Gebran Terazi whose work consists of specific motifs and patterns.
Some of the artists displaying their work include Afruz Amighi from Iran, James Clar from the United States, Graham Day from the United Kingdom, Mounir Fatmi from Morocco, Mujahidin Nurraham from Indonesia, Timo Nasseri from Germany, and Hazem Harb from Gaza.
The exhibition has a diverse range of work including the esoteric creations of Basmah Felemban, and Sama Mara who incorporates music composed by Lee Westwood into her work. Nurraham specializes in visual ornamentations created from cut out paper.
Many of the artists are showcasing their work in the Kingdom for the first time.