“Art is an unusual communication tool, it outlives us.” Mariam Nihal Saudi Gazette
Saudi artist Lulwah Al Homoud, practices various Islamic art forms using calligraphy and geometrical expressions. Her silkscreen printing techniques allow her the freedom to express much of what she feels and understands about this medium of art. She initially studied sociology but came back to art, her real calling in life. “I went to university again to study art and design at Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design, London. I later did my masters which helped me practice the art of Islam. Calligraphy and geometry are my area of research and inspiration.” In an interview with Saudi Gazette she said it is integral for every artist to learn everyday and have a signature style. “A good artist learns from others but at the same time is known by a certain style of his/her own. You know a mature artist by their consistent style that develops with time. Leaving a mark and something for others to learn. Artists have to reflect what they truly believe in and not to follow trends or aim for fame.” Most of her work involves silkscreen printing. “This medium requires patience and planning but with a certain freedom to make some changes during the process. A lot of ideas develop during the process and inspire me to do new work in a different way. I love paper and I use 100% pure cotton paper and this medium is the closest to a calligraphers work, the ink sinks into the paper and creates a crisp clean graphic image,” she explained. She is fascinated with abstract art with deep viewpoints and principals, ranging from Arabic Calligraphy to Islamic geometry. “They both have multiple cultures and sciences within them. It is the unity of The One God that gave the strong identity for art within diverse cultures. I also identify with modern western art like Kandinsky, Paul Klee, M.C Esher and Mondrian, all these artists had a universal message that corresponds to the ideas in Islamic art. There are contemporary Arab artists that I admire like Samir Al Saegh, calligrapher Muneer Al Shaarani and many more. With the definitions blurring within the art sphere in Saudi Arabia where people can confuse art with artists, it is a detrimental sign for the prospering industry. “I find many ‘artists' now are only coming with ideas where real artists don't only come up with ideas but go further and enjoy the process of creating art. Art in general today is about the artist and not the message within the art.” On the other hand a lot of art pieces are appreciated because they confirm the misleading media messages. Of course there are serious professionals and academics in the art world that don't agree with it but unfortunately there's a lot of money and advertising behind the least value where art is considered a ‘product'.” According to Al Homoud, artists have a lot to give, by inspiring others. She believes their mission does not end at creation but by spreading its message. “I believe each artist has a message to communicate and a role to play in society. I find working with younger students through talks and workshops are always positive experiences. Artists spread beauty, knowledge and creativity and become ambassadors outside their homes.” She described art as an unusual communication tool that is immortal. “It is the attempt to reach beyond the obvious and a journey of searching that never ends. It is a sign of civilization; it builds knowledge and heritage for others and connects people together. I consider it a very serious and vital aspect in society.” Al Homoud believes there is a growing understanding about the sentimental and material value of art. “Artists are gaining respect from society for what they have achieved and the authorities are aware of the significance of artwork in new projects like airports, government institutions and foundations.” She thinks it is vital to increase awareness and knowledge whether directly through art or indirectly by getting involved in art programs and workshops. “I also said before that he artist becomes an ambassador for his country in the outside world and that is such a big responsibility. I don't like the so called accidental art.” And that she explained is because the real definition of art is to be creative. “Conceptual art opened a huge door to non-artists who made their names because they came up with shocking ideas.” Al Homoud was the only chosen artist from the Middle East to be a part of a Korean museum's opening, among 36 important international artists in 2009. She was thrilled to find out European teenagers were inspired by her work to study Islamic art. “Because my work is contemporary by nature, it attracted young people who read about my work and my inspirations and became fascinated with the ideas behind it. I was proud to be a curator from the Saudi art scene and to be able to leave a positive impression.” She seeks inspiration from meditation, science and maths. “It is not enough for me to see the outer beauty of things but the beauty that lies within the hidden rules of the creation. There's a mathematical pattern for everything in the creation and I find that language is for those who want to grow their faith.” Looking at the future, she said she does not have a final goal in mind but she sets new ones everyday. “I am grateful to God for what I have achieved. I have exhibited in major international shows and my work in international museums but I dream of a day I see an Islamic art museum in our Kingdom, Something for the new generation to learn from and contribute to. I am very happy with the new King Abdulaziz Centre.” The artist has exhibited around the world in China, Korea, New York, London, Paris, Germany, Switzerland, Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Bahrain and Beirut. Al Homoud is also the founder of Cube Arts in London and Dubai, an initiative for cultural exchange programs and to promote art from the region internationally.
