Maram Al-Asmari RIYADH — A group of journalists with Princess Areej Bint Turki Ibn Naseer gathered at the Areej Art Cafe to witness the princess' paintings and clothing line last Sunday. “I wanted people interested in both fashion and art to come to this place and enjoy their time chatting and having quality food,” said princess Areej, adding, “There is also a corner for children where they can paint on canvas while their accompanying adults enjoy their time at the other area of the café.” The café resonates an artistic feel; every chair is a unique piece so is every plate and cup which showcases creativity and freedom of choice rather than conformity. The princess has designed rotating plates that allows any one seated at any chair around the table to see all that is there on the plate, and choose and pick what they desire from it. Some of the common appetizers at the cafe were presented in a new and creative way. For her clothing line, Princess Areej's said that she first looks at the print and then chooses the fabric. “I go and touch the fabric myself. I make sure I choose one of the best fabrics for my clothes.” Her clothes have found more success in the eastern market, instead of the exhibitions she hosted in Paris. When asked what influences her choices in pieces and collections of design, the princess said: “Almost everything I see creates an idea. My latest collection for example is influenced by a trip I made to India where I was amazed by the colors of saris. Also, I am very keen on having a Saudi print on my pieces. Just like in India people still wear saris, the national costume of the country, I like my pieces to have a touch of Saudi taste.” Looking back on her childhood, and recalling the early sparks of talent that had shaped her present state as a painter and designer, Princess Areej said: “I was creative from a very young age. Although not creative professionals, my mother and father have strong artistic senses, which I am sure inspired me and perhaps runs in the family. After I finished school, I was overcome with the desire to experiment and learn more about art, so I went to Cambridge College in the UK where I particularly enjoyed painting. I learnt so much. Even now, I continue to learn as many new things as possible; each summer I attend courses in Paris,and I am starting my Masters of Fine Arts degree at Academy of Art University in San Francisco.” The princess said she wants the wearer of her clothes to feel comfortable in every way. “Comfortable, cosy, beautiful and artistic – my collections are casual in essence but can be worn during the daytime or at night.” Princess Areej's children are her greatest fans who make her proud. “They choose to wear my designs of their own accord. One day I asked them ‘Why are you wearing my designs?' and they said they felt comfortable and that made me extremely proud. My kids inspire me all the time.” — SG
