MAKKAH: Saudi sculptor Dima Abdullah spoke to Arab News about the inspiration behind her work and the importance of innovation in art.
Using clay as her primary medium, Abdullah skillfully brings her visions to life, considering inspiration as the indispensable fuel that propels true artists into the realm of ideas.
She said: “Sculpting and modeling with heat-resistant clay, starting from my childhood, has been one of the most enchanting experiences that shaped and defined my artistic world.”
Her artistic journey allowed her to explore diverse avenues within the field of visual arts, such as traditional painting and drawing murals, as she expanded her skill set.
When undertaking a new project, Abdullah emphasizes the importance of connecting it to a personal story. She cited examples like “Miss Warda,” inspired by her time planting roses with her grandfather, and the character “Sheikha Sambusa,” linked to the welcoming of the blessed month of Ramadan.
Her pieces also often echo the sentiments of universal tales. For instance, the sculpture “Jabal Tuwaiq” embodies the spirit of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and draws a parallel between the resilience of Saudi citizens and the formidable Jabal Tuwaiq mountain range, symbolizing unity and strength, she said.
Aspiring to be an innovative artist, Abdullah says she strives continually for personal development and believes that artists can carve out a space of their own through persistence and focused experimentation.
While she values solo learning, she encourages fellow artists to participate in training courses, exhibitions and social gatherings with others in the field to exchange knowledge and experiences.
As awareness and appreciation for art evolve, Abdullah finds joy in real-world interactions and social media support, engaging her audiences in the creative process.
She launched Damzon, a store that accepts orders from clients and sells her exclusive works. It also offers training courses for those interested in the field.
