JEDDAH THROUGH THE EYES OF AN ARTIST
Renowned French comic book artist, Joel Alessandra, embarked on a journey through Saudi Arabia to capture the nation’s rich culture and heritage in his unique style.
Facilitated by the French Embassy and the Alliance Francaise Saudi Arabia, Alessandra’s visit took him to Riyadh, Alkhobar, and AlUla, but it was the charm of Al-Balad, Jeddah’s old town, that truly captivated him.
Describing his experience, Alessandra said, “This part of the city of Jeddah is the one that inspired me the most. We feel the atmosphere of a time when pilgrims stopped here, we perceive this fervent activity, there is an atmosphere of a centuries-old tradition that is still palpable.”
A SKETCH OF AL-BALAD
The ancient architecture of Al-Balad served as a rich source of inspiration for Alessandra, with its patina-covered walls and intricate doorways. His sketches aimed to capture the essence of Al-Balad’s vibrant past and present.
During a live performance in Jeddah, Alessandra recreated scenes from Al-Balad, offering spectators a glimpse into his artistic process.
INSPIRATION FROM TRAVEL
Drawing from his experiences across Africa, Alessandra emphasized that the atmosphere and people of a country shape his way of drawing. He was amazed by Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning cultural scene and the enthusiasm for artistic expression among its youth.
THE FASCINATION OF ALULA
Reflecting on his visit to AlUla, Alessandra expressed his awe, especially at the Nabataean tombs and the old town with its shaded streets. He found inspiration in the surroundings and the history embedded in the architecture.
A CREATIVE COLLABORATION
During workshops in Jeddah, Alessandra engaged French school students in a collaborative storybook project focusing on the Francophonie. Together, they reimagined the adventures of Muslim traveler Ibn Battuta in modern-day Arabia through text and drawings.
WORDS OF WISDOM
On his growth as an artist, Alessandra emphasized the importance of constant practice and encouraged aspiring artists to always have a drawing pad handy. “Draw, draw, and draw some more,” he advised, highlighting the value of seizing every opportunity to hone one’s craft.