Arab art continues to hold new shapes, forms and meanings, as the creatives of the region continue redefining.
Formulating worlds and disrupting the current dialogue, these artists’ creativity and innovation knows no limits. From film to body art to prints to installations, indulge and learn through the eyes of renowned Arab artists.
Here are some of GRAZIA’s favourite Arab art that have popped up around the region. Continuing to amaze us with boundless creativity.
Ali Cha’aban
The prints of his DNA etched into everyday items, the Riyadh-based, Lebanese-born artist embodies tension in his work. From collaborations with Nike, Dior, Prada and exhibitions at the Saudi Art Council, Leila Heller Gallery and more, his art spans wide. Yet somehow still remains truthful to his heritage and vision.
Currently showing “I guess I’m still angry.” at Leila Heller Gallery, Dubai
Future Bedouin
The definition of transformative art, the UAE based artist Future Bedouin doesn’t seem to exist on the same planet as we do. If you’re looking to be transported into a world-bending reality, this Emirati’s awe-inspiring installations and breathtaking design do exactly that.
Currently showing “Future Majlis” at Jax District, Riyadh.
Sard Visuals
While some fear the rise of AI, Sard Visuals embraces it, using it as a medium to tell the unheard stories of the Arab world. Ethereal work that dismantles preconceptions of the region, this visual project was only established last year but has managed to demand the attention of many. Blending (and breaking) the realms of photography, graphic design and technology, they create ethereal work that moulds “The New Arabia”.
Current prints available on site.
Somaya Samawi
Less is more for this Yemeni artist. With multimedia works, she shines an abstract light on her culture through film and photography. She adds a sense of disruption to quiet moments with her use of texture, colour and light. A subdued loudness breathes to her work, as she gives the world a piece of her home.
Current directorial debut “Scent Memories”.
Utopic Arabia
Some inspiration for your dreams? Utopic Arabia creates, blends and remoulds, as they create art that reflects an abstract Arab world. Owned by the renowned Dune Studios, each piece is simultaneously rooted in magic and reality. Where tradition meets technology, they produce futuristic art that pushes the boundaries of our imagination.
Current “Playful Houses” prints available.
Azra Khamissa
An artist whose works live on her body, Dr. Azra is a Henna artist and designer who centres reinterpretation in her work. Taking inspiration from world events and her cultural background, she unleashes her thoughts, theories and beliefs on her palms. Bold yet minimal, her art has no shortages of canvases.
Current stencils available on site.
The Confused Arab
“We travel the world because we can’t travel time.” Sofiane Si Merabet is the artist behind The Confused Arab, which emulates a community more than an individual. The Alegria artist and cultural entrepreneur is based in Dubai, and explores the search for nostalgia in the Arab world’s past and present. Reflecting on his plural identities through installations and emblematic spaces, he unravels how identity and memory interact in Arab culture.
Current work available on site
