Dana Awartani,  Mercury from the Heavenly Bodies series, 2015, Shell gold, natural pigment and ink on paper, H59 x W59 cm (Courtesy: Athr Gallery)
Dana Awartani, Mercury from the Heavenly Bodies series, 2015, Shell gold, natural pigment and ink on paper, H59 x W59 cm (Courtesy: Athr Gallery)

Athr launches robust summer programme in Jeddah



I was really pleased to see a great turn out (via my social media feeds) at Athr Gallery this week for the opening of three exhibtions. Although I haven't seen the art personally, I am sure that Palestinian-Saudi artist Dana Awartani's work is well worth checking out. This young artist is one of the strongest talents coming out of Saudi at the moment and her obsession with Islamic geometric patterns really appeals to my taste. Nasser Al Salem, another personal favourite of mine also revealed his latest installation - And We Adorned The Nearest Heaven With Lamps which if his previous work is anything to go by, was also bound to be impressive. There was also a group show, a design initiative and a robust education programme, which confirm Athr's position as one of the leading art institutions in the Gulf. If anyone has the pleasure of being in Jeddah this summer, I would recommend a visit.

* For more info visit www.athrart.com

The biog

Name: Mariam Ketait

Emirate: Dubai

Hobbies: I enjoy travelling, experiencing new things, painting, reading, flying, and the French language

Favourite quote: "Be the change you wish to see" - unknown

Favourite activity: Connecting with different cultures

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