UAE | Leisure

Syrian artist enjoys interest in her work

Art impacts how we see the world, Syrian artist says

By Sara Sabry, Staff Reporter
Published: 14:20 September 21, 2012

Image Credit: Rowaida Zukari
Rowaida Zukari

Abu Dhabi: Ideas don’t only come from politicians and philosophers.

Visual arts can also be harnessed as one of the most influential ways to illustrate a wide view of humanity, says a Syrian artist living in Abu Dhabi who is enjoying newfound interest in her work

The work of the Syrian artist, Rowaida Zukari was affected by the Arab spring and reflected the value of freedom, justice, and the significance of individual lives.

For the past seven years, the 49-year-old artist has started to turn her talents to abstract art and calligraphy, disciplines long pursued by her family, especially her uncles Ziad and Asaad Zukari.

“The spark of art and design runs in my family. My two uncles have contributed to the community art in Damascus through printing the design of the first stamp in Syria. They were not trained, however, they were talented and gifted,” Rowaida said.

“Index International Design Exhibition 2012 was the first and the only art gallery which I have participated in with 30 of my drawings and paintings,” she added.

Rowaida heard about the exhibition from media outlets and is participating in during its run in September and October this year at Dubai World Trade Centre.

Art is something that reflects changing times, interactions and understanding. Several factors around us can impact how we see and interpret the world.

“My husband and my children affect my psychological and emotional state dramatically during drawing or painting. Also, green nature considers one of the major factors that can impact my art works,” the mother of three children told Gulf News.

Zukari also pointed out that she has showcased three of her drawings at souq.com and she has received interest from buyers all over the world beside great words of admiration and applause by other Arab and foreign artists.

“I don’t draw portraits because I believe art is a great form of communication which should be delivered to the mass audience through signs, while intended meanings, messages and ideas can be explored throughout colours, lines, and lights,” Zukari said.

The Syrian artist established a handicraft store in Damascus years ago and she used to sell Quranic paintings and handcrafted carpets. However, she is now looking forward to sell her paintings and drawings in more art galleries and exhibitions.

“We are all affected by the rapid pace of our culture; however, we are not on this earth to be busy and this was never the goal. We are here to build relationships, enjoy different life experiences, go to several places, create things, assist others, or do whatever else we decide. I advise everyone to take a moment to stop, make a decision to no longer be busy, explore your abilities, talents and have the courage to follow it to the dark places where it leads,” Rowaida told Gulf News.