Mariam Nihal
Saudi Gazette
JEDDAH — "Art in Saudi Arabia is varied. It grows slowly and we support it ourselves. The artist is responsible for representing himself and his personal message through his paintings."
Ghadah Al Yousef, a young Saudi artist and founder of Rshmah Art, spoke with Saudi Gazette about the growing importance of art and social media that introduces virtual audiences to cyber galleries.
With her art degree, and inherent passion for drawing, Al Yousef established Rshmah Art that offers a variety of self-painted designs, paintings and contemporary art objects "such as cans on which I draw and adorn with gems and crystals by hand" with artsy home décor.
Al Yousef has been a part of many local art gallery exhibitions and is proficient in drawing, painting and designing jewelry.
She recently participated in Themar Ramadan, at Maison BO-M in Riyadh. Her works endorsed a Khaleeji feel with an arabesque texture representing the spirit of Ramadan.
"My work is available on my website, social networking sites and galleries which I take part in. As for my achievement, I can say that each painting of artwork of mine is an achievement to me because I represent my identity in my works in Rshmah Art," she said.
Al Yousef’s work reflects her Saudi heritage with glimpses of the Arabian Peninsula.
She said modern media is very important and diverse. "But the most significant kind of support I have is the admiration of others with Rshmah works and receiving words of appreciation from people when they purchase my artworks."
Al Yousef believes its imperative for artists to engage in social media and communicate through the medium to reach out to the audience and create awareness about their art.
"Besides modern media helped me gain recognition in different countries just like I desired. Social networking sites are essential and a fast means of spreading art and knowledge.
It also caters to artists and those who are interested in drawing and designing. In addition, they help engage with galleries and art related news on a local and international level helping us communicate with other artists," said Al Yousef.
She is currently working on the expansion of Rshmah Art, through increasing the variety and production of the project. Al Yousef wants to develop the project and diversify her art collection. "I am expanding by increasing the number pieces of art that I design. Recently I have designed iPad and iPhone covers from my project. I want Rshmah Art to offer more pieces of art, paintings, décor, gift boxes, and jewelry among many others. My goal is to offer a lot and that which is not limited to design and only paintings. I hope that Rshmah Art becomes an integrated art store in the future."
Al Yousef’s goal is to remain steadfast to her virtue of originality. Arabic calligraphy, women, Islamic décor and horses inspire her. "I now plan on taking part in a number of local and international art galleries, while offering art courses with some charity organizations."
