Transformative Artistic Experience at Bait Shouaib in Al-Balad
JEDDAH: The Athr Foundation has set the stage for creativity and cultural exchange with the launch of the first open studio at Bait Shouaib, an artists’ residential program nestled in the heart of Al-Balad.
Immersed in the rich heritage of its surroundings, Bait Shouaib offers artists a supportive environment to unleash their creativity and explore the unique cultural nuances of Al-Balad.
Exploring Al-Balad Through Art
During the residency, artists delved into the essence of the Al-Balad district through the eyes of a local inhabitant, resulting in captivating studio presentations and site-specific installations.
One artist, Badr Ali, shared his experience of rediscovering Al-Balad and its outdated toys, sparking a journey of artistic exploration. He reflected on the district’s transformation and created thought-provoking artwork highlighting the contrast between superficial esthetics and inherent quality issues.
The residency in Jeddah proved to be a unique and inspiring experience for artists like Badr Ali, offering new challenges and fresh inspirations for their work.
Enchanting Night-time Festivities and Cultural Exploration
The intimate perspective offered by the artists deepened their understanding of Al-Balad’s cultural heritage, with the night-time festivities during Ramadan adding an extra layer of enchantment to their experience.
Artist Tamara Kalo expressed her excitement about the residency program, emphasizing the endless possibilities for creative exploration and the doors it opens for future artistic endeavors.
Reflecting on her artwork, Tamara described the symbolism behind her creation and the innovative use of materials to blur the line between the material and immaterial.
Innovative Approaches to Urban Landscapes
Abdulla Bahiji’s innovative approach to reimagining Jeddah’s urban landscapes involved transforming concrete blocks into biodegradable incense burners infused with scents and flora.
As a newcomer to Al-Balad, Abdulla was captivated by the city’s essence and the rich tapestry of scents that shaped his experience. His exploration of the city’s history revealed the remarkable resilience of local businesses and their adaptability to changing times.
Curating Collaborative Artistic Spaces
The curator of the open studio, Alana Alireza, played a pivotal role in cultivating a harmonious and collaborative workspace for artists and researchers at Bait Shouaib. Her reflective essay inspired by Al-Balad explores themes of scent and nostalgia, adding depth to the artistic dialogue.
Bait Shouaib, hosted by the Athr Foundation, offers artists a transformative four-week residency experience, complete with fully equipped studio spaces and opportunities for cross-cultural dialog, heritage exploration, and artistic development.