This week, the historic Ad Diwan Hall inside the Aramco compound was decked out in a lavender carpet for four days, greeting guests to the grand finale of the 70th annual Dhahran Art Group show on March 2.
Throughout the event, members of the Aramco community congregated to revel in live piano melodies, savor delectable hors d’oeuvres, and engage with local artists presenting their works. The theme of this year’s exhibition was aptly titled “Araaqa: Deep Rootedness.”
Suad Sami, a well-known creative force in the Jordanian art scene, was one of the artists on display. With a background in interior design and a fervent pursuit of diverse creative outlets, Sami embarked on a journey of exploration, venturing into jewelry design over a decade ago. Her meticulous curation of stones birthed a collection that reflected her discerning taste and artistic sensibilities.
Transitioning from teaching art to pursuing entrepreneurship, Sami's evolution as an artist has been marked by a commitment to crafting elegant bespoke pieces. Despite her growth, her dedication to infusing each creation with timeless sophistication remains unwavering. At the Dhahran Art Group's exhibition, she debuted two necklaces, one of which was inspired by the symbolic strength embodied by the Arab sword, tailored specifically for Founding Day.
In a poignant display of solidarity, Sami also presented a series of paintings featuring tatreez, the traditional Palestinian stitching technique, alongside artworks depicting birds perched on benches.
For Sami, participating in the Dhahran Art Group show extends beyond mere presentation; it embodies a tradition she shares with her daughter, who, although absent due to relocation, continues to be a part of the artistic legacy.
Serene Rana, a remarkable eighth-grader, embarked on her artistic journey inspired by a gift from her mother—a set of acrylic paints and a blank canvas. At just 13 years old, her debut at the exhibition marked a significant milestone. Despite her youth, Rana embraced the opportunity, expressing a sense of belonging amidst the array of talent.
Her paintings, influenced by pop art and surrealism, serve as a canvas for her exploration, blending elements of teen identity, cultural heritage, and emotional depth. Through her art, Rana seeks to provoke thought and evoke emotions, utilizing color as a conduit for conveying various sentiments.
With a year-long endeavor behind her showcased works, Rana eagerly anticipates future opportunities to share her evolving artistic narrative on a broader platform.
The exhibition showcased diverse artists like Sami and Rana, presenting paintings, sculptures, accessories, and mixed-media works, curated by Dhahran Art Group, with pieces available for purchase.
