Saudi artist embraces the unconventional with anti-aesthetic artworks

Saudi artist embraces the unconventional with anti-aesthetic artworks
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Asrar Al-Qarni’s work showcased at Zawaya art Gallery in Jeddah. (Instagram/ies0)
Saudi artist embraces the unconventional with anti-aesthetic artworks
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By highlighting discord and dissonance in her paintings, Asrar Al-Qarni, a self-taught artist, creates a unique and thought-provoking experience for those who encounter her work. (Supplied)
Saudi artist embraces the unconventional with anti-aesthetic artworks
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By highlighting discord and dissonance in her paintings, Asrar Al-Qarni, a self-taught artist, creates a unique and thought-provoking experience for those who encounter her work. (Supplied)
Saudi artist embraces the unconventional with anti-aesthetic artworks
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By highlighting discord and dissonance in her paintings, Asrar Al-Qarni, a self-taught artist, creates a unique and thought-provoking experience for those who encounter her work. (Supplied)
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Updated 17 April 2024
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Saudi artist embraces the unconventional with anti-aesthetic artworks

Saudi artist embraces the unconventional with anti-aesthetic artworks

RIYADH: In a world fixated on beauty and aesthetic perfection, Saudi artist Asrar Al-Qarni is boldly producing anti-aesthetic and unsettling art.

Through her work, the 33-year-old challenges traditional notions of beauty and protests conformity. She compels viewers to confront uncomfortable truths and explore darker aspects of society.

This unconventional approach to art can be seen as a romantic rebellion against society’s constraints, as well as a celebration of individuality and freedom of expression.

Al-Qarni told Arab News that anti-aesthetic art encourages people to look beyond the surface and find beauty in the unexpected and the unconventional. It seeks to disrupt the status quo and provoke thought and discussion about the nature of art itself: “Instead of being visually appealing and comforting, anti-aestheticism prioritizes evoking emotions and disturbing expression within the artwork,” the artist said.

This can lead to anti-aesthetic works being labeled ugly, jarring, or anti-art by those who prefer more aesthetically focused works.

By highlighting discord and dissonance in her paintings, Al-Qarni, a self-taught artist, creates a unique and thought-provoking experience for those who encounter her work. “Incorporating elements of chaos, ugliness and discomfort forces viewers to confront their preconceived notions about what art should be,” she added.

Al-Qarni became interested in anti-aesthetic art because of its raw human expression and beauty hidden by imperfections.

She uses bold colors and abstract shapes to create pieces that challenge viewers’ preconceptions and provoke a strong emotional response.

“I use various materials for my art, including mixed media, oil paint, acrylic paint and watercolor. My choice of materials depends on the specific technique or effect I want to achieve in my artwork,” Al-Qarni said.

By breaking free from the constraints of conventional beauty, the artist is pushing boundaries and inspiring others to think outside the box.

Al-Qarni said she cultivated her style through dedicated practice. She started copying and sketching cartoons from her favorite television shows as a child. “As I got older, I got into realistic portrait painting, trying to capture the world around me, but I soon realized that realism did not allow me to express my emotions deeply enough,” she added.

The Saudi artist eventually resorted to a more liberated method, allowing her to follow her instincts and let her brush strokes guide her: “When I hold the brush against the canvas, it becomes a way to quieten the noise of life and connect with my inner self, providing a source of relaxation and tranquility.”

The artist maintains a multi-purpose space where she paints, serving as both a studio and a cozy personal area.

“It is where I sleep, read and spend most of my time. Waking up surrounded by the creative mess of my art provides me with a sense of passion and inspiration to continue my artistic journey each day.”

Ten years ago, Al-Qarni decided to pursue art professionally, and she has not looked back since. Her work has been featured in galleries and exhibitions across Saudi Arabia, earning her recognition and acclaim from critics and audiences.

Al-Qarni’s first showing was in 2016 in Jeddah with Behance, the world’s largest network for showcasing and discovering creative work.

“Facing the audience, I received both compliments and critiques. The experience was helpful and encouraging, inspiring me to create more and improve my art,” she said.

She has taken part in several art exhibitions, such as the Misk Art Institute in 2019, which provides a platform for creative individuals to influence present-day discussions.

Al-Qarni also showcased her work at Grey Art Gallery in Alkhobar, and Zawaya Art Gallery and Sensation Art Gallery in Jeddah.

The artist gives each painting a title that reflects the overarching emotion or story behind the artwork. The title can be inspired by a novel, a song, or a personal experience related to the painting.

“How someone perceives and feels about a painting can vary depending on the person looking at it,” she added. “We all bring our own thoughts and experiences, which adds to the richness and meaning of any artist’s work.”

To aspiring artists who might be intimidated to share their artwork and innermost emotions with an audience, Al-Qarni preaches that the world needs art.

“Embrace the opportunity for growth and connect with other artists through feedback and experiences, and remember that every artist starts somewhere, and sharing your work is a step toward achieving your goals.” 


Heart of Africa’s culture, cuisine now at Boulevard World

Heart of Africa’s culture, cuisine now at Boulevard World
Updated 04 January 2025
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Heart of Africa’s culture, cuisine now at Boulevard World

Heart of Africa’s culture, cuisine now at Boulevard World
  • Food, coffee, music, crafts on offer in Riyadh
  • New zone features giraffes, lions and parrots 

RIYADH: Boulevard World has brought the vibrant spirit of Africa to Riyadh with a special zone featuring the cuisine and culture from some of the continent’s countries.

The Africa Zone has exotic wildlife including giraffes, colorful parrots, and lions. There is also an array of food and music from various nations.

A highlight is the Ethiopian Coffee experience, which showcases the country’s hospitality and rich traditions. This coffee is made using traditional methods which bring out unique flavors. 

Hanan Amro, a coffee maker at one of the Ethiopian restaurants, told Arab News: “We bring our coffee beans from our farm in Ethiopia. They are fresh, and we carefully select them. 

“We sun-dry, roast, and brew the coffee in our special pot to create a strong drink that combines elements of Turkish and Americano coffee.” 

The Africa Zone also hosts live music featuring traditional rhythms and folk tunes.

For those looking to take a piece of Africa home, the zone features many kiosks selling antiques, animal statues and leather goods. 

There is also an array of skincare products made with Shea butter, for which certain nations are renowned.  

The launch of the Africa Zone coincides with Boulevard World’s expansion for this year’s Riyadh Season, which has increased the number of themed zones by five to 22.

The expansion is a part of Riyadh Season’s initiative to attract people from various backgrounds and promote cultural understanding. 


Italian designer discusses fashion innovation, sustainability at AlUla talks

Italian designer discusses fashion innovation, sustainability at AlUla talks
Updated 04 January 2025
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Italian designer discusses fashion innovation, sustainability at AlUla talks

Italian designer discusses fashion innovation, sustainability at AlUla talks
  • Event was hosted by Saudi Arabia’s Cultural Development Fund, in collaboration with the Fashion Commission

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Cultural Development Fund, in collaboration with the Fashion Commission, recently hosted luxury fashion designer and Italian entrepreneur Brunello Cucinelli at AlUla.

The event supported the fund’s mission to assist creatives and entrepreneurs in the cultural sector by promoting knowledge exchange, and fostering sustainability, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

It aimed to connect global cultural experts with Saudi entrepreneurs and creatives, providing a platform for dialogue, as well as sharing expertise and best practices to drive growth and innovation.

The session focused on integrating diverse techniques into cultural projects, enriching cultural identity, while blending creativity and innovation, the SPA said.

Cucinelli discussed his career in a panel titled “Brunello Cucinelli: From Castel Rigone to the World,” discussing key themes such as building a global fashion brand, merging heritage with innovation, sustainability in luxury fashion, social responsibility, cultural exchange, and the future of fashion.

He emphasized craftsmanship as essential to sustainability and authenticity in fashion.

The event aligns with the fund’s efforts to improve the managerial, financial, and technical skills of creatives, reducing startup costs, and sustaining creativity in the cultural sector.

In November, the fund signed credit agreements worth more than SR30 million ($8 million) to finance Saudi fashion projects, supporting growth and job creation in line with Saudi Vision 2030.


Kingdom sends aid to Syria in fifth airlift

Kingdom sends aid to Syria in fifth airlift
Updated 04 January 2025
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Kingdom sends aid to Syria in fifth airlift

Kingdom sends aid to Syria in fifth airlift
  • KSrelief’s mission spans multiple countries, providing critical aid, medical services

RIYADH: The fifth airlift relief plane, operated by Saudi aid agency KSrelief, arrived on Saturday at Damascus International Airport in Syria.

The plane, which left from King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, carried food, shelter and medical supplies to help address the difficult conditions faced by the Syrian people.

The humanitarian initiative reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to supporting those in need worldwide, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

On Jan. 1, Saudi Arabia launched the delivery by air initiative with two planes to provide essential aid to Syria, supporting efforts under the new leadership to rebuild the country after years of civil war.

KSrelief Supervisor General Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah said that the aid delivered by air would be followed by aid delivered by land in the coming days to provide urgent relief to the Syrian people.

According to KSrelief, the Kingdom’s total aid to the Syrian people from 2011 to the end of 2024 exceeds $856 million.

Meanwhile, KSrelief continues its humanitarian efforts in Palestine, Pakistan, Yemen, The Gambia and Bangladesh, benefiting thousands.

In Gaza, KSrelief distributed 4,494 shelter kits in one day, providing essential materials such as blankets, mattresses, kitchen utensils and water containers to displaced families during a wave of cold weather.

In Pakistan, 1,000 food baskets were distributed in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces in a single day, aiding 5,947 individuals affected by flash floods.

In Yemen, KSrelief recently concluded its CPR training program in Aden governorate, conducting five sessions for 57 participants to improve medical skills.

In Abyan governorate, KSrelief distributed 2,754 food baskets in one day, helping 19,278 people.

In The Gambia, KSrelief’s Saudi Noor program examined 3,655 patients, distributed 750 pairs of eyeglasses and performed 196 eye surgeries in Farafenni.

In Bangladesh, KSrelief’s Saudi Noor program in Rajshahi examined 4,253 patients, distributed 1,615 pairs of eyeglasses and performed 503 eye surgeries.

Since its launch in 2015, KSrelief has implemented 3,208 projects worth more than $7.2 billion in 105 countries, in cooperation with 458 local, regional and international partners.

The agency’s programs include food security, water sanitation and hygiene, health, education, emergency aid, nutrition, protection, early recovery, logistics and telecommunications.


Saudi authorities warn of rain starting Sunday

Saudi authorities warn of rain starting Sunday
Updated 04 January 2025
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Saudi authorities warn of rain starting Sunday

Saudi authorities warn of rain starting Sunday
  • Strong winds of up to 60 km/h may stir dust, while torrential rain, hail, and high waves along the coasts are possible

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Meteorology has forecast moderate to heavy rain across most regions of the Kingdom from Sunday until Wednesday.

Strong winds of up to 60 km/h may stir dust, while torrential rain, hail, and high waves along the coasts are possible, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Rain will affect the Tabuk, Northern Borders, Jouf, Madinah, Makkah, Hail, Qassim, Riyadh, Eastern Province, Baha and Asir regions.

According to the center, rain is expected in the Tabuk and Madinah regions on Sunday and Monday, in Jouf and the Northern Borders from Sunday evening to Tuesday, and in Hail and Qassim on Monday and Tuesday.

Rain is also expected to fall in the Riyadh region from Monday to Wednesday, in the Eastern Province on Tuesday and Wednesday, and in Makkah on Monday and Tuesday.

The center said people should stay informed about the weather through its daily reports, the Anwaa app, and social media.

The authorities also urged them to avoid valleys and low-lying water-logged areas susceptible to flooding.

For safety, the center also advises following instructions issued by relevant authorities.


Kingdom arrests 19,541 illegals in one week

Kingdom arrests 19,541 illegals in one week
Updated 04 January 2025
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Kingdom arrests 19,541 illegals in one week

Kingdom arrests 19,541 illegals in one week

RIYADH: Saudi authorities arrested 19,541 people in one week for breaching residency, work and border security regulations, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

According to an official report, a total of 11,402 people were arrested for violations of residency laws, while 4,775 were held over illegal border crossing attempts, and a further 3,364 for labor-related issues.

The report showed that among the 953 people arrested for trying to enter the Kingdom illegally, 58 percent were Ethiopian, 40 percent Yemeni, and 2 percent were of other nationalities.

A further 129 people were caught trying to cross into neighboring countries, and 27 were held for involvement in transporting and harboring violators.

The Ministry of Interior said that anyone found to be facilitating illegal entry to the Kingdom, including providing transportation and shelter, could face imprisonment for a maximum of 15 years, a fine of up to SR1 million ($260,000), as well as confiscation of vehicles and property.

Suspected violations can be reported on the toll-free number 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.