Syeda Amtul Saudi Gazette JEDDAH — Arabian Wings for Fine Arts launched the first “Saudi Sculpture Awards and Exhibition” at Gallery Hall in Jeddah's Basateen district on Sunday. Businesswoman Maha Fetaihi inaugurated the show, which will run until May 31. The event helped sculptors and emerging artists to showcase their talents under one roof. Unique works of 32 sculptors are on display. The collection consisted of a unique combination of 32 pieces of classical to modern art works in marble, stone, wood and other materials. Mohammed Bahrawi, co-founder and organizer of the sculpture awards, said: “Our mission is to support Saudi sculptors as this art does not get enough attention in Saudi Arabia and this is the reason why we decided to bring the talent under the spotlight.” He also said the contest was meant as a platform for the convergence of cultural bonds between artists and intellectuals, exchange of artistic expertise and to consolidate artists' names at Arab and international levels. “We want to bring the best sculptors in front of everyone, instill confidence in their work and see them shine,” said Bahrawi. “The contest was open to everyone. Arabian Wings' motive is to enhance the work of artists, and I am sure after seeing the excellent works of different artists, this form of art will generate greater interest and next year we will have more participants.” Arabian Wings promotes artists on national and international levels. Recently, its artists' works were taken to a Dubai art show. It is currently planning exhibitions around the world to promote the artists globally. “We at Arabian Wings for Fine Arts are interested to support emerging Saudi artists and open new doors for them, support them in different fields of art through creativity and challenges. We offer artists and members the opportunity to acquire quality in different fields of art and to participate in other projects of Arabian Wings,” said Bahrawi. Najla Felemban, artist and founder of Arabian Wings, said: “This exhibition is first of its kind in the Kingdom. It includes professionals, new and old, with all their work. Our mission is to promote art, and all 32 pieces of displayed art are amazing.” The jury panel consisted of Saudi artist Ahmed Husain, Najla Felemban and sculptor Ajeeb Yousef. Ali Al-Hasan won the first prize worth SR15, 000 for his iron sculpture “Waiting Patron.” Adel Abdul Latif Abdul Aziz Khiymi's work, “Message of Freedom,” won the SR10,000 second prize while the third prize of SR5,000 went to Waled Kurdy for his work "Monkey.” Other winners included Emad Ali Maghrabi, Hazem Elsayed Mohamed, Tariq Hashem Althaqafi, Sauod Mahjob, Tamer Rajab, Talal Al-Tukhis and Fahad Al-Azwari.
