When we look at the whole concept behind Athr Gallery we can evidently see a tangible transition into the captivating world of art; providing Jeddah’s residents with a contemporary art sanctuary in the heart of Tahlia Street, to fulfill the need for an environment where Saudi artists, art critics and the passionate art society of Saudi Arabia can share and luxuriate their senses and minds in the finest works of art.
Athr Gallery driven by passionate and qualified people in the field of art to exhibit internationally known artists to the Saudi art scene in order to enrich and infuse the creative minds of Saudi artists. To set such high standards, Athr Gallery has been an encouraging participant in Art Dubai 2009, Venice Biennale 2009, and Edge of Arabia in London 2009.
On the 16th of August 2009 Athr Gallery officially opened its doors to welcome the art community of Saudi Arabia with its first exhibition “United in Faith” that focuses on the Muslim’s faith, its peacefulness and tolerance. United in Faith exhibited works of famous international artists like the well known British photographer Peter Sanders, the legendary master of Arabic calligraphy Haji Noor Deen Mi Guang Jiang, the ambitious Saudi sculptor Noha Al-Sharif, and the esteemed Saudi Arabian artist Lulwah Al-Homoud.
This first exhibition offered lectures by Haji Noor Deen Mi Guang Jiang about the concept of “Art of Calligraphy in Chinese way with Arabic lettering”. Photography workshops by Peter Sanders for amateur photographers that explains techniques and the way of thought behind them, plus workshops focused on the ‘Art of Seeing’.
With such an astonishing collage between workshops, art, and artists the United in Faith exhibition will be open to the public till the 14th of September. And that’s just the beginning since Athr Gallery will organize many more exhibits in the near future.
“Athr Gallery’s main objective is to establish a place where we can shed light on creative Saudi artists, in order to discover their talent and help them hone it, so that we can present them to the world to show the richness of their imagination that was mixed with their wealthy Saudi heritage.” Said Mr. Mohammed Hafiz.
“When we started to showcase Saudi artists on the international arena, we discovered that the world really appreciated our works of art, they simply were mesmerized by it, and that is why we decided to create this gallery to discover more unpolished gems that would touch a special place in our hearts.” Said Mr. Hamza Serafi.
Both founders have devoted their lives to explore beauty, and share discovered masterpieces, they have been working hard for years to establish the perfect setting in order to support the art sphere in Saudi Arabia thriving to refine the way we see modern art. And to spread the alluring vivid dreams of Saudi artists to the world.
During our first visit to the Athr Gallery we couldn’t help but to admire the openness and tranquility of the surrounding, giving you a chance to unwind and adore such amazing pieces of fine art. From What’s Up’s perspective we can see that a careful eye has been focusing on all of the small details in order to create a world-class art gallery that connects both place and time to further enrich our culture with the vibrant visions of Saudi and international artists.
ATHR Gallery is located in the Business Center’s 5th floor of Serafi Mega Mall, Prince Mohammed Abdul Aziz, Tahlia St.
The exhibition will be open to the public until the 14th of September 2009. Opening hours during Ramadan will be from 10.00am – 4.00pm & 22.00pm – 1.00am (by appointment), Saturday through Thursday.
More information can be found on their website www.AthrArt.com or you can call +966 (0)2 284 5009 to reserve a private viewing.
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