Young Saudi artist finds beauty in the ordinary

Almasoud’s painting of a man selling ramsi tomatoes, the seasonal heirloom fruits with green ‘shoulders’ found in Qatif. (Supplied)
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Almasoud’s painting of a man selling ramsi tomatoes, the seasonal heirloom fruits with green ‘shoulders’ found in Qatif. (Supplied)
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Updated 16 April 2024
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Young Saudi artist finds beauty in the ordinary

Almasoud’s painting of a man selling ramsi tomatoes, the seasonal heirloom fruits with green ‘shoulders’ found in Qatif.
  • Dana Almasoud’s works are inspired by historical Middle Eastern and European art aesthetics

RIYADH: When picking up a pencil or paintbrush to create an artwork, self-taught Saudi artist Dana Almasoud channels her inner child.

“As soon as a child picks up a pencil, they attempt to draw or capture a sense of what they see through their eyes on paper. The majority of them stop at some point in their childhood, for whatever reason,” Almasoud told Arab News.




Almasoud’s painting of a man selling ramsi tomatoes, the seasonal heirloom fruits with green ‘shoulders’ found in Qatif. (Supplied)

“Fortunately, I was one of the few who never did. I had the luxury of a supportive mother who always looked forward to my next scribble.”

While pursuing her undergraduate studies in finance, as a freelance artist Almasoud explores a variety of styles, from fine art to surrealism and fantasy inspired by everyday scenes.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Much of Dana Almasoud’s work is inspired by Islamic historical art, characterized by its symbolism and emphasis on the beauty of spirituality.

• One of her first works inspired by Saudi culture was a commission from a man who wanted a portrait in the orientalist style.

• The artist says her work is an attempt to fill the void that excess simplicity and minimalism has created in recent years.

“The warm morning sun, the singing of the birds, the stoplights and the people. I am surrounded by life and I do my best to pour what I see into my work. What makes us human is how we make things from nothing,” she said.




Almasoud’s painting of a man selling ramsi tomatoes, the seasonal heirloom fruits with green ‘shoulders’ found in Qatif. (Supplied)

Speaking about the “sanctuary” she has created in her room, she said: “It took me years of collecting, arranging and a lot of dedication to get it to how it is now.”

Much of Almasoud’s work is inspired by Islamic historical art, characterized by its symbolism and emphasis on the beauty of spirituality.




As a freelance artist Dana Almasoud explores a variety of styles, from fine art to surrealism and fantasy inspired by everyday scenes. (Instagram/esotericdana)

“In order for me to create things that resemble life, it only makes sense to use colors that already exist in nature,” she said.

“I take a lot of inspiration from historical art, both from Europe and the Middle East, since the pigments they used were extracted from natural sources and were perfectly saturated.”




Almasoud’s painting of a man selling ramsi tomatoes, the seasonal heirloom fruits with green ‘shoulders’ found in Qatif. (Supplied)

She enjoys experimenting with new mediums, but drawing with a pencil is her preferred choice.

“I also do enjoy the occasional challenge of an ink brush, because once it sets its bristles on paper, you cannot go back. When it comes to painting with color (watercolors, acrylics, oils), I still consider myself in the process of learning,” she said.

The warm morning sun, the singing of the birds, the stoplights and the people. I am surrounded by life and I do my best to pour what I see into my work.

Dana Almasoud, Saudi artist

“I also experiment with pyrography, doll making, embroidery, linoleum block printing and, soon, murals.”

Almasoud said one of her first works inspired by Saudi culture was a commission from a man who wanted to look like an orientalist.




Almasoud’s painting of a man selling ramsi tomatoes, the seasonal heirloom fruits with green ‘shoulders’ found in Qatif. (Supplied)

Her most recent painting is of a man selling ramsi tomatoes, the seasonal heirloom fruits with green “shoulders” that are prevalent in Qatif.

“These tomatoes are known for a special flavor and a lot of farmers from various lands tried to grow it themselves, but to no avail. For some reason, these tomatoes only taste special when they grow on that specific piece of land,” Almasoud said.

She said she had been told her work had “a layer of fog, where the edges are never harsh,” which reflects the high levels of humidity in the Eastern Province where she lives.

“I can see the Arabian Gulf from the window of my room. You can imagine the high rates of humidity, which is where I think that layer came from,” she said.

“I will always wonder how this translated into what I draw, but regardless, I do love it.”

Almasoud said her art was an attempt to fill the void that excess simplicity and minimalism has created in recent years.

“My art is an attempt to inspire people back to see the beauty in complexity and the intricacy of the small things in life.”

Speaking about the importance of art in the modern world, she said: “With the increase in the pace of the world, art has become even more important. It gives people and their minds something to hang on to, for them to not lose themselves and their identities in a busy world.”

For more information about the artist visit @esotericdana on Instagram.

 


10 Arabian sand gazelles released in Thadiq National Park 

10 Arabian sand gazelles released in Thadiq National Park 
Updated 27 February 2025
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10 Arabian sand gazelles released in Thadiq National Park 

10 Arabian sand gazelles released in Thadiq National Park 
  • Initiative is part of a comprehensive national strategy to reintroduce endangered native species to help restore ecological balance in natural habitats
  • Initiative aims to enhance biodiversity within the park, boost its tourist appeal, and support the center’s environmental sustainability efforts

RIYADH: The National Center for Wildlife — in partnership with the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification — has released 10 endangered Arabian sand gazelles into Thadiq National Park as part of its ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability.

The initiative is part of a comprehensive national strategy to reintroduce endangered native species to help restore ecological balance in natural habitats.

This initiative aims to enhance biodiversity within the park, boost its tourist appeal, and support the center’s environmental sustainability efforts.

National parks serve as vital ecological corridors, linking protected areas and enabling wildlife to move freely within their natural habitats.

Mohammed Qurban, the CEO of the National Center for Wildlife, said that reintroducing species was a key step toward strengthening environmental sustainability, maintaining ecosystem resilience, and enriching biodiversity.


Hotels in holy cities get ready for Ramadan

Hotels in holy cities get ready for Ramadan
Updated 27 February 2025
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Hotels in holy cities get ready for Ramadan

Hotels in holy cities get ready for Ramadan

Jeddah: Hotels in Makkah and Madinah are being adorned with decorations as they prepare to welcome millions of pilgrims, offering guests the chance to experience Saudi culture firsthand during Ramadan.

Mohammed Haris, from India, who makes it a point to spend Ramadan every year in Makkah and Madinah, said: “Ramadan in Saudi Arabia is truly unique. The atmosphere and spirit here are unlike anywhere else in the world.

“I always choose to stay in hotels that are close to the holy sites, and over the years I’ve witnessed the improvements (in them).

“Hotels are continuously striving to make guests feel at home, allowing them to focus on their prayers and spirituality.”

Elaf Al Taqwa Hotel’s location in Madinah, near the Prophet’s Mosque, offers easy access to prayer.

The hotel has introduced a range of special services for Ramadan, including dua recitations played throughout the premises, daily azan calls, and a carefully curated menu for iftar and sahoor featuring traditional Saudi and international cuisine.

Hussain Rauff, the general manager of the hotel, said: “Our goal is to create a spiritually uplifting environment in which guests feel at home while experiencing the essence of Ramadan in the heart of Madinah.

“We have also introduced exclusive Ramadan offerings, such as a Ramadan bazaar, where pilgrims can purchase Islamic books, prayer mats, dates, perfumes, handcrafted souvenirs and other local products, allowing them to take a meaningful piece of their journey home.

“A traditional seating area has also been set up, offering a space for reflection and connection over Saudi coffee and local delicacies like balilah and chai adani after Taraweeh prayers.”

In addition, Rauff added: “To ensure a balanced routine, we’ve kept our gym open throughout Ramadan, allowing guests to maintain their well-being while observing the spiritual practices of the month.”

The hotel also offers tours on the history of Madinah, including visits to Quba Mosque.

The Elaf group of hotels in Makkah, close to the Grand Mosque, is preparing to welcome an influx of guests during the holy month.

Hassan Khaleel, operation regional director for the Makkah region, said the hotels’ “goal is to provide an enriching stay and allow pilgrims to focus on their spiritual journey.”

The Address Jabal Omar Makkah has recently opened a walkway directly leading to the Grand Mosque.

The hotel’s interiors celebrate Saudi culture and heritage, with a large iftar buffet and a Ramadan tent with traditional Saudi coffee, dates and holy Zamzam water.

Frontel Al Harithia Hotel in Madinah focuses on sahoor, which is especially important during Ramadan fasting.

For those seeking a deeper connection to the historic and spiritual significance of Ramadan, Ahmed Zahrani has partnered with several hotels in Makkah to offer tours that explore sacred sites in the region. Iconic locations such as Jabal Al-Rahmah, Namira Mosque, Zubayda Spring, and Muzdalifah can be visited.

Zahrani said that the tours offered “insight into the sacred landmarks of Islamic history.”

Zeyad Labban, the managing director of Maad International Hajj and Umrah Services Company, spoke about how the business is “committed to enhancing the comfort of pilgrims and visitors by providing all necessary services,” including accommodation, transport, dining, and historic tours.

Hotels in the holy cities are working to provide an environment in which pilgrims can focus on their faith and make the most of their time, with a warm welcome and respectful hospitality throughout the month.


Saudi crown prince congratulates Lebanon PM on formation of government

Saudi crown prince congratulates Lebanon PM on formation of government
Updated 27 February 2025
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Saudi crown prince congratulates Lebanon PM on formation of government

Saudi crown prince congratulates Lebanon PM on formation of government

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sent a cable of congratulations to Lebanon’s Prime Minister Nawaf Salam on the formation of his new government, the Saudi Press Agency said early Thursday.

Lebanon’s new government on Wednesday won a confidence vote in Parliament, with the support of Hezbollah’s bloc, even though the government statement adopted took a swipe at the group’s weapons.

Ninety-five out of 128 lawmakers supported the government of Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, a prominent jurist who previously headed the International Court of Justice. He was appointed last month to form a new government after a devastating war between Israel and Hezbollah, which killed over 4,000 people and caused widespread destruction.

The crown prince wished Salam luck in his new duties and the Lebanese people further progress and prosperity.


Saudi Arabia condemns Israeli strikes on Syria 

Saudi Arabia condemns Israeli strikes on Syria 
Updated 27 February 2025
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Saudi Arabia condemns Israeli strikes on Syria 

Saudi Arabia condemns Israeli strikes on Syria 

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia condemned Israeli strikes that his several areas in Syria, describing the act as an attempt to destabilize its security and stability in repeated violations of relevant international laws, a foreign ministry statement said.

The Israeli army said it carried out air strikes targeting military sites containing weapons in southern Syria on Tuesday, just days after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called for demilitarizing the area.

“Over the past few hours, the IDF (Israeli military) struck military targets in southern Syria including command centers and multiple sites containing weapons,” the army said in a statement, without specifying the exact locations of the strikes.

The ministry expressed Saudi Arabia’s solidarity with the Syrian government and people, stressing the need for the international community to assume its responsibilities to stop Israeli actions that undermine security and stability in the region, and prevent the escalation of the conflict, which the Kingdom has repeatedly warned against.


Saudi king, crown prince receive written messages from Azerbaijan president

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan receives the message from his Azerbaijani counterpart Jeyhun Bayramov in Riyadh.
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan receives the message from his Azerbaijani counterpart Jeyhun Bayramov in Riyadh.
Updated 27 February 2025
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Saudi king, crown prince receive written messages from Azerbaijan president

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan receives the message from his Azerbaijani counterpart Jeyhun Bayramov in Riyadh.
  • Crown Prince Mohammed also received a written message from the President of Comoros Azali Assoumani on Wednesday

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received separate written messages from Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev on Wednesday.

The messages were received by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan during a reception with his Azerbaijani counterpart Jeyhun Bayramov in Riyadh.

Prince Faisal and Bayramov reviewed relations between their countries and ways to enhance them. They also discussed the latest regional developments and efforts made with regard to them.

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan greets his Comoran counterpart Mbae Mohamed in Riyadh. (SPA)Caption

Crown Prince Mohammed also received a written message from the President of Comoros Azali Assoumani concerning relations between their countries. 

The message was received by Prince Faisal during a meeting with his Comoran counterpart Mbae Mohamed in Riyadh. 

Saudi-Comoran relations and issues of common interest were discussed during the meeting.