Keneibit is a female Saudi artist whose roots lie in the artistic heritage of Saudi Arabia and whose work in sculpture, ceramics, paintings and other art forms are present reminders of yesteryear's Saudi art. “The goal of all my artwork as an Arab Muslim artist is to show all the changes in culture (that have taken place) as one looks at the history of the Arabian Peninsula,” said Al-Keneibit during an interview with Saudi Gazette, conducted at her impressive studio in Riyadh. The studio houses her paintings as well as a number of pieces in ceramic and sculptures made from clay and other materials. Her work evokes strong images of Saudi history, expressing the unique sentiments she attaches to the Kingdom's heritage. The work also reflects a strong Islamic presence. “As is the custom in the Islamic culture, all of my artwork should be observed from right to left,” she explained. Al-Keneibit's use of color reflects and mirrors the shades one finds in specific elements within the desert; rich tones of light and dark brown, a unique dark green and gold. “The gold color illustrates a woman's richness in terms of value and beauty as she matures throughout her life,” she explained. All of her work touches upon the challenges people in the Kingdom face on a daily basis. “These materials symbolize the view of women within various Muslim countries,” she stated. “The ceramic images signify the difficulties and challenges that women (in the region) must overcome.” Challenging conventions through her work, Al-Keniebit hopes to draw attention to the need for gender equality. “The cracks in my ceramics and other clay objects signify, reflect and represent the struggles present in the lives of Saudi women in a broad range of activities,” she added. “The visual arts can and do reflect pain.” Born in Qassim, Saudi Arabia in 1962, she pursued her artistic training at Howard University in Washington D.C. and at the Corcoran College of art and design. She aspires to hold major art exhibitions of her work in Washington, to bring Saudi women to the forefront of the international art scene, as well as to highlight Saudi Arabia's artistic talent.
