The story behind Saudi artist Alia Ahmad’s alluring abstracts

The story behind Saudi artist Alia Ahmad’s alluring abstracts
Alia Ahmad's 'Alwasm' at the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale in Riyadh. (Supplied)
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Updated 26 May 2024
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The story behind Saudi artist Alia Ahmad’s alluring abstracts

The story behind Saudi artist Alia Ahmad’s alluring abstracts
  • Ahmad is garnering international attention, with two solo exhibitions in Europe  

RIYADH: Hanging at the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale in Riyadh is a large canvas titled “Alwasm,” a 2023 painting by Saudi artist Alia Ahmad. It’s an instant showstopper. Guests on the opening night of the event, which runs until May 24, gathered around the painting, which was inspired by Wadi Hanifah in the Najd region of Riyadh, which is where the biennale is being staged. Commissioned for the event, the painting’s alluring warm tones and lively hues capture the titular period between October and December when the weather becomes cooler and there is respite from the arid desert heat.  

Ahmad is on a roll. Since graduating from London’s Royal College of Art with a Master’s in 2020, the 28-year-old Riyadh-based painter has staged several solo exhibitions in her home country and has increasingly garnered international attention for her abstract expressionist canvases that depict the natural and urban landscape of her home country. Ahmad says she considers paintings “social spaces” as well as “blueprints.” 




Alia Ahmad's 'Malga—The Place In Which We Gather,' which sold for $128,786 at auction this year. (Courtesy of Phillips)

“These paintings represent my version of the landscape,” Ahmad tells Arab News. “They include elements that may be references to birds or various color palettes that aren’t necessarily found in the landscape, but that represent how I view it. I’m addicted to incorporating my imagination.” 

The desert landscape, she stresses, “is not necessarily dry or empty. It has so much more.” And that is what she captures in the lush, lyrical brushstrokes of her abstract works, which are filled with references to local culture. “The traditional Arab bedouin dress is filled with color. As are the tents,” she says. “Women here have traditionally embellished their gowns. Where does this sense of vibrant creativity come from? The color and playfulness we imbue our traditional dress and items with comes from the landscape.” 

Ahmad recently staged her first solo exhibition in Europe. “Terhal Gheim (The Voyage of the Clouds)” runs at White Cube in Paris until May 18.  

On March 7 this year she sold her first work at auction at the Phillips 20th Century & Contemporary Art sale in London. Her painting “Malga — The Place in Which We Gather” sold for four times its estimate, bringing in a remarkable £101,600 (roughly SAR475,825). 




Ahmad's works on display in London's Albion Juene Gallery. (Gilbert McCarragher)

And on May 2, another solo exhibition — “Thought to Image” — opened in London at Albion Jeune. Running until June 12, the show presents Ahmad’s alluring abstract landscapes, inspired by the hues of traditional textiles created by Sadu weavers of Bedouin tribes and the Arabic calligraphic script known as khatt. 

“Much of my inspiration comes from textiles,” she explains. “At one point I was obsessed with making collages and with buying pieces of fabric.”  

She also used to draw stick-figure cartoons as a child, she adds. Those amateur drawings were works in progress — an aspect Ahmad continues to enjoy in her practice. “I loved the idea of having a drawing in progress to then fill in the blanks of what the character might look like later,” she says.  

Ahmad’s paintings today are an amalgamation of various aspects of her homeland — its rich natural environment from the desert to the lush palm trees and other vegetation, local dress, jewelry and animals. She brings all of them together to depict in colorful abstract forms the richness of Saudi heritage, particularly that of her home region of Najd. 

Her works, as international gallerists and collectors have found, are rife with specific local details that connect in some way with people across the world, even if only by piquing their curiosity about a country that has only recently really opened up to visitors. 

Ultimately, Ahmad’s paintings serve as a unique reference point during a time of monumental social and economic change in the Kingdom, revealing and documenting a moment of both transformation and a desire to retain and promote Saudi’s rich heritage. 

Her imaginary landscapes also include flattened perspectives, nods to her previous training in digital culture at King's College London. They reflect the futuristic visages of the modern world coupled with the beauty of the undulating curves of the desert landscape and the colorful attributes of Arabian culture. 

Each painting takes the viewer on a voyage into a vibrant abstract world that echoes aspects of everyday reality. 

As Ahmad puts it: “They are all playful paintings and I make sure that each work and each show I stage retains that aspect of curiosity.” 


At Riyadh Season, Pakistan Week draws over 300,000 visitors to art, music and cultural activities

At Riyadh Season, Pakistan Week draws over 300,000 visitors to art, music and cultural activities
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At Riyadh Season, Pakistan Week draws over 300,000 visitors to art, music and cultural activities

At Riyadh Season, Pakistan Week draws over 300,000 visitors to art, music and cultural activities
  • The event was held from Oct. 30 to Nov. 2 during the annual Riyadh Season as part of the Saudi Global Harmony Initiative
  • It showcased vibrant performances by Pakistani singers, delicious food, clothing stalls, truck art and other activities

ISLAMABAD: Art, music, delicious cuisine and clothing fascinated more than 300,000 visitors during Pakistan Week at Riyadh Season, the Pakistani embassy in Saudi Arabia said on Sunday, adding the event was “well received” by local and expatriate communities in the Saudi capital.

Pakistan Week activities were held at Al-Suwaidi Park, located in the heart of the Saudi capital, from October 30 till November 2 as part of the Global Harmony Initiative under Riyadh Season.

The event featured vibrant performances by Pakistani artistes, delicious food, clothing stalls, and the iconic truck art from the South Asian country, attracting diplomats, top entrepreneurs and community members from both nations.

“Pakistan Week was well received by local and expatriate community in Riyadh as over 300,000 people visited colorful activities and arenas,” the Pakistani embassy told Arab News, adding that performances by leading Pakistani singers, drum maestros and schoolchildren as well as puppet shows and handicrafts captivated audiences with the diversity of Pakistani culture.

“The [Al-Suwaidi] Park was filled with food stalls, truck art, a play zone for kids and a cultural parade, which was a highlight of the event.”

The participants described the event as a “unique and unforgettable experience” as it offered a delightful blend of music, sports and culture.

“For the overseas Pakistanis in Riyadh, Pakistan Cultural Week in Riyadh was not just an event, it was a homecoming as it was a chance to reconnect with their roots, to share their culture with their Saudi friends and other global communities and to create lasting memories with their families,” Waqar Naseem Wamiq, a Pakistani expatriate working as a trade manager in Riyadh, told Arab News.

He said the vibrant atmosphere and the “sea of people” transformed the venue into a buzzing hub of entertainment and cultural exchange, setting a new benchmark for future events.

“Over 130,000 enthusiastic fans gathered to enjoy the performances by [singers] Ali Zafar and Asim Azhar on days two and three of Pakistan Cultural Week,” he said, adding that the overwhelming response not only highlighted the immense popularity of the singers, but also underscored the significance of cultural events in bringing together communities and fostering a sense of unity and celebration.

He said the meticulous planning and execution of the event by the Saudi General Entertainment Authority and the Ministry of Media left a lasting impression on everyone.

“Attendees lauded the Saudi hosts for their warm hospitality and dedication to creating an inclusive and engaging atmosphere,” Wamiq added.

Ali Swati, who owns Traditional Taste Restaurant in Riyadh, said his stall at Pakistan Week featured ‘matka tea,’ ‘samosas,’ ‘biryani’ and other Pakistani dishes.

“Visitors loved these items so much that they placed numerous large orders for home delivery to be fulfilled after the festival,” he told Arab News.

Swati said Arab and other expatriate communities showed “great interest” in Pakistani food, appreciating its taste and diversity.

“It was a great opportunity for our business as it introduced our restaurant to many people and will help attract more customers to our outlet in Riyadh,” he said.

Another Pakistani expatriate, Muhammad Naveed, who works as an engineer in Riyadh, said the seamless blend of diverse cultural performances and activities not only entertained attendees, but also fostered a sense of unity and appreciation for the rich tapestry of cultures present.

“This exceptional effort by the Saudi hosts and organizers has set a new standard for cultural events, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to bringing joy and fostering community spirit,” Naveed told Arab News.

“The presence of celebrated cricketers, Shoaib Malik, Shadab Khan and Sarfraz Ahmed, added a touch of sporting excellence to the event as their participation not only boosted the spirits of the fans, but also highlighted the importance of sports in cultural celebrations.”

Besides the performances, he said, the week was full of a variety of cultural activities that showcased the rich heritage of Pakistan.

“From traditional dance performances to art exhibitions, every aspect of Pakistani culture was on display, providing a holistic cultural experience,” Naveed added.

The Kingdom recently launched the Global Harmony Initiative to celebrate the diverse nationalities and cultures of its residents by exploring their lives, contributions and cultural integration.

The initiative, a collaboration of the Kingdom’s General Entertainment Authority, Ministry of Media and the Quality of Life Program, has been featuring events that showcase cultures, cuisine and heritage of countries such as Pakistan, India, Malaysia, Indonesia and others.


REVIEW: ‘Astro Bot’ sets new standards for platformer games

REVIEW: ‘Astro Bot’ sets new standards for platformer games
Updated 03 November 2024
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REVIEW: ‘Astro Bot’ sets new standards for platformer games

REVIEW: ‘Astro Bot’ sets new standards for platformer games

LONDON: “Astro Bot,” one of Sony’s flagship titles for the PlayStation 5, raises the bar for 3D platform games.

Positioned as a competitor to well-known characters such as Mario and Sonic, this game delivers a delightful, imaginative experience, brimming with vibrant levels, innovative mechanics, and a healthy dose of nostalgia that will appeal to younger players and longtime PlayStation fans.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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The storyline is simple but leaves plenty of room for the player’s imagination. You play as Astro, a charming robot hero on a mission to rescue his fellow bots scattered across various galaxies after an attack on their spaceship. While the narrative is not groundbreaking, it serves its purpose well, keeping the focus on the gameplay.

“Astro Bot” is designed to engage players of all ages. With a 7-plus age rating, it’s accessible to a wide audience — my 4-year-old, for example, finds it captivating. The game offers about nine hours of playtime for those focused on the main story, with closer to 17 hours for completionists seeking out bonus areas and treasure.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Visually, “Astro Bot” shines. Across six distinct galaxies and more than 80 creatively designed levels, players will explore tropical paradises, icy landscapes and futuristic environments, each packed with charm and variety. The level design ensures the game stays fresh throughout, keeping players engaged.

One of the game’s standout features is its exceptional use of the PS5’s Dual Sense controller. Haptic feedback and adaptive triggers make Astro’s movements feel more immersive than ever. New gadgets and abilities, like animal-themed power-ups, are seamlessly integrated into the gameplay, adding depth and variety. The way the game maximizes the controller’s features makes every jump, glide and gadget interaction feel responsive and exciting.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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“Astro Bot” is also a treasure trove for PlayStation history enthusiasts. With more than 150 iconic characters to collect — like PaRappa the Rapper, Kratos from “God of War” and Nathan Drake from “Uncharted” — the game taps into nostalgia that will bring a smile to long-time fans.

Accompanied by a playful soundtrack composed by Kenny C.M. Young, which is available on platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music, the overall experience is joyful and engaging.

In short, “Astro Bot” is a must-play for PS5 owners. It provides fun for all ages and sets a new benchmark for platforming games.


‘I always compete with myself’: Yasmine Sabri shares insights at Hia Hub in Riyadh

‘I always compete with myself’: Yasmine Sabri shares insights at Hia Hub in Riyadh
Updated 03 November 2024
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‘I always compete with myself’: Yasmine Sabri shares insights at Hia Hub in Riyadh

‘I always compete with myself’: Yasmine Sabri shares insights at Hia Hub in Riyadh

RIYADH: In a session at lifestyle conference Hia Hub, Egyptian actress Yasmine Sabri opened up about her life beyond the glitz and glamour of her career. Known for her on screen talent, Sabri took the opportunity to share lesser-known insights about her personal journey, her inspirations, and her views on self-improvement.

Hia Hub is taking place in Riyadh’s JAX district and featured discussions, masterclasses, workshops, interactive exhibitions and live performances. The event wraps up on Nov. 3.

Sabri recounted her dedication to swimming, a passion she pursued until the age of 18. (AN Photo/ Huda Bashatah)

During her talk, Sabri, who has a series of blockbuster Arabic films under her belt and is also a global brand ambassador for French label Cartier, expressed her admiration for Saudi women.

“They embody a spirit of determination that inspires me,” the 36-year-old remarked, before reflecting on her formative years.

 Sabri recounted her dedication to swimming, a passion she pursued until the age of 18. “Swimming taught me discipline,” she said. “I used to swim before school and after at night, and we didn’t have the option to say, ‘I don’t want to.’” This commitment not only shaped her physical abilities but also instilled a strong work ethic that she carries into her acting career, she said.

Mental fortitude also emerged as a key topic during the discussion. Sabri emphasized the importance of competing with oneself, stating, “I’m grateful and I always compete with myself on a daily basis. One should always stay hungry and be competitive with oneself.”

The actress kicked off her career in 2013 and went on to star in such films as “Abo Nasab” and “El Diesel.” (AN Photo/ Huda Bashatah)

The actress kicked off her career in 2013 and went on to star in such films as “Abo Nasab” and “El Diesel.”

Often spotted on the Cannes Film Festival red carpet, as well as at film festivals across the Middle East, the actress is known for her style and her makeup. The actress told the crowd at Hia Hub she is preparing to segway into entrepreneurship with the launch of her own beauty brand, Pose Beauty.

Although details about the brand are being kept under wraps, Sabri would join the likes of Lebanese actress Nadine Nassib Njeim who launched her eponymous beauty brand in May.


Hindus, Muslims gather in unity to celebrate Diwali at historic Karachi temple

Hindus, Muslims gather in unity to celebrate Diwali at historic Karachi temple
Updated 02 November 2024
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Hindus, Muslims gather in unity to celebrate Diwali at historic Karachi temple

Hindus, Muslims gather in unity to celebrate Diwali at historic Karachi temple
  • Diwali honors the victorious return of Lord Rama, one of Hinduism’s most revered figures, from exile
  • Devotees light up homes and workplaces, distribute sweetmeats and wear colorful clothes to mark festival

KARACHI: Thousands of men, women and children, both Hindus and Muslims, gathered on Friday at the 234-year-old Shri Swaminarayan temple in the southern Pakistani port city of Karachi to celebrate one of the biggest Hindu festivals, Diwali.

Diwali honors the victorious return of Lord Rama, one of Hinduism’s most revered figures, from exile and was celebrated in various parts of the world either on Thursday or Friday.

It is also known as the festival of lights to symbolize the triumph of light over darkness, or good over evil, explaining why fireworks are so central to the Diwali celebrations.

The Swaminarayan temple, situated in the Serai Quarters area, is not only frequented by Hindus living in the neighborhood, but members of the community from elsewhere in the bustling megapolis too.

“Diwali is a festival of happiness, a festival of lights. Our lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after 14 years in exile. His wife Sita and his [younger] brother Laxman were also with him, who stood by him,” Hansa Rani, an academic, told Arab News, lighting up small oil lamps, called ‘diyas,’ to welcome their Lord.

“We celebrate their return with happiness [on Diwali], wear new clothes, distribute sweets and make rangoli [in which] we decorate our floor with colors.”

A Hindu woman and a young girl hold clay-lamps during a ceremony to celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights, at Somi Narin temple, in Karachi on November 1, 2024. (AP)


One of the most prominent Hindu festivals, Diwali is celebrated across the globe wherever the community resides. Devotees light up their homes and workplaces to signify light over darkness.

The festivities span over the course of five days, starting with ‘Dhanteras,’ that marks the first day of Diwali, followed by ‘Naraka Chaturdashi’ [Choti Diwali], Diwali, ‘Govardhan Puja’ and Bhai Dooj. Each day has different rituals and significance.

Pakistani Hindu women celebrate 'Diwali', the festival of lights, at the Krishna Temple in Lahore on November 1, 2024. (AFP)

“We are here to celebrate Diwali. As you can see, how happy these people are. There is one festival in the entire year during which we have mithai (sweetmeats), worship, light diyas, and meet our relatives,” Gauri Dara, who was at the temple with her family, told Arab News, on the sidelines of the celebrations.

“On this day, our cousins from other cities come to meet us too. We celebrate Diwali together.”

Children light firecrackers during 'Diwali' festival celebrations in Karachi on November 1, 2024. (AFP)

Muslims, who attended the celebrations at the Swaminarayan temple, said they had come to stand in solidarity with their Hindu brothers and sisters and share their happiness on the joyous occasion.

“[Despite] being a Muslim, I come here every year since the past 10 years in fact. I love the fact that we get to celebrate Diwali with our Hindu community every year because I have a lot of Hindu friends in Pakistan,” Qasim Shafique, a senior television news producer, told Arab News.

“Our flag also represents [minorities]. The white part in the [Pakistani] flag is for minorities. So, I come to celebrate that every year. I’ll meet all my Hindu friends here and we will enjoy the festivities together.”


Hia Hub session highlights vital role of pharmacies in Saudi Arabia’s growing skincare market

Hia Hub session highlights vital role of pharmacies in Saudi Arabia’s growing skincare market
Updated 02 November 2024
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Hia Hub session highlights vital role of pharmacies in Saudi Arabia’s growing skincare market

Hia Hub session highlights vital role of pharmacies in Saudi Arabia’s growing skincare market

RIYADH: Industry leaders discussed the evolving role of pharmacies in skincare during a session at Hia Hub, Saudi Arabia’s fashion, beauty and lifestyle conference, held in Riyadh’s JAX District from Oct. 30 to Nov. 3.

The session, titled “Re-Defining the Pharmacy Channels in Skincare,” brought together prominent figures, including Charlotte Devaux, general manager of wellness and masstige, Pierre Juhen, group president of Patyka, Mahmoud Mamdouh, CEO of Whites Pharmacy, and Cynthia Kattar, editorial director of Hia Magazine.

Mamdouh emphasized the pivotal role of trust in pharmacy skincare. He said: “When discussing pharmacies and skincare, the main concept is trust.” 

(AN/ Huda Bashatah)

Over the past 15 years, pharmacies have cultivated strong relationships with customers, who often turn to pharmacists for personalized skincare consultations, he said. 

Devaux added to the discussion by highlighting social media’s impact on consumer behavior.

(AN/ Huda Bashatah)

She said that while platforms such as TikTok and Instagram offered abundant information, consumers still preferred advice from trusted pharmacists. “Wellness has become a priority for consumers, driving the growth of skincare,” she said. “This reliance on pharmacies as credible sources of information and products is crucial in a marketplace filled with conflicting messages.”

Juhen elaborated on the expansive reach of pharmacies. In Saudi Arabia, there are about 6,000 pharmacy locations, compared to 20,000 in France, he said. 

(AN/ Huda Bashatah)

He said that this dynamic retail channel had shown resilience, even during challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, where the pharmacy segment in France experienced growth of 4 percent. 

Juhen highlighted the universal appeal of pharmacies and said: “Everyone visits pharmacies, regardless of age or socioeconomic status,” making them essential points of contact in the community.

The session concluded with a consensus among the speakers on the importance of pharmacies in the skincare sector. As trusted providers of personalized advice and quality products, pharmacies were well-positioned to lead the growth of skincare, they said.