Artist awarded for fostering Saudi-UK cultural ties

LONDON: Saudi artist Lulwah Al-Homoud has received the Rawabi Holding Award for her contribution to promoting Saudi-British cultural relations. 
She was awarded by Abdulaziz Al-Turki, chairman of Rawabi Holding. The award ceremony was held in the presence of Prince Khalid bin Bandar bin Abdul Aziz, Saudi ambassador to the UK.
Al-Homoud told Arab News that she was “humbled and honored to be presented with the award,” and that “it came as a complete surprise.”
She said she had “never worked toward an award or to be recognized,” adding that she was just doing what she believes in. 
Al-Homoud said she feels a sense of responsibility to continue using art to strengthen cultural exchange.
She has dedicated years to introducing Saudi art to the West and the wider world. Her artwork has been acquired by galleries and museums including the British Museum, and has been auctioned at Sotheby’s, Christie’s and Bonham’s. 
Much of her work is precision Arabic calligraphy that merges with geometric shapes in an abstract form, creating intricate formations that appear simple. 
“Geometry and pattern are in nature, authentic and pure. A universal language. This universal language is reflected in my work,” Al-Homoud said.
The prestigious Rawabi Holding Award ceremony was organized by the Saudi-British Society and held at London’s Institute of Directors.
Sir William Patey, Saudi-British Society chairman and former UK ambassador to Saudi Arabia, spoke at the event. 
He stressed the importance of further strengthening Saudi-British friendship through cultural initiatives, and congratulated Al-Homoud on her achievement.
Annually, the awards go to one Saudi and one British citizen for their efforts in strengthening cultural relations between the two countries through their work. 
Dignitaries, members of the Saudi-British Society and the media were among those who attended the ceremony.