The Madinah Art Centre is hosting a solo exhibition called "Stations" by Saudi artist Shakir Samargandi. The exhibition pays tribute to the Hijrah Highway, a crucial link that connects the Kingdom's two holiest mosques, Makkah and Madinah. Spanning over 400 km, this road serves as a pathway for countless travelers, presenting a magical voyage, rich in exquisite intricacies reminiscent of ancient tales.
Through his art, Samargandi hopes to capture the memories and enduring legacy that have been etched in the minds and hearts of people who have travelled this road. The "Stations" exhibition features 26 modern pieces, including light boxes, movies, and pictures that depict rest stops and gas stations along the route. Some of the artworks depict deserted fuel stations that were once teeming with travelers.
The timing of the exhibition, scheduled for June 22, aligns with the beginning of the Hajj season, when many pilgrims embark on the Hijrah Highway. By selecting this timeframe, Samargandi hopes to improve the journey of the visitors to the holy sites as well as promote national initiatives to improve their experience.
Through "Stations," the exhibition sheds light on the developmental changes the Kingdom has undergone and their impact on this historically significant road. Samargandi explores his role as an artist in portraying the path traversed by Hajj and Umrah performers, showing how the Hijrah Highway's destinations combine ethereal ideas like beauty and comfort with useful components that enhance their social and economic significance.
Born in 1982, Samargandi is a contemporary artist based in Madinah. He explores Saudi Arabia's nature, civilization, culture, legacy, and urbanization through professional photography. He exhibits his works locally in Madinah and Jeddah, as well as internationally in Seoul, South Korea.
The "Stations" exhibition is organized under the supervision of Namaa Al-Munawwarah, with support from the Cultural Fund. Curated by artist Moath Alofi and the artistic director of the Madinah Art Center, Rashed Al-Shashai, the exhibition aims to draw attention to the center's contribution to the Kingdom's artistic community and creative economy.
Madinah Art Center's director, Mohammed Al-Fozan, highlighted its recent contributions to the art scene, including cultural programs, expanding from two to nine specialized clubs, with three more planned. The Art 365 Gallery allows artists to exhibit their work freely for a week, without restrictions.
Established in 2018 under the patronage of Madinah's governor, Prince Faisal bin Salman, the Madinah Art Center plays a pivotal role in promoting art, supporting artists, and developing the creative economy in the region.
