Eternal greetings

On the occasion of Eid Al Adha, one artist made art that transcended its physical tenure

Nathaniel Alapide makes his Eid drawing at Jumeirah Beach hotel in Dubai. Pawan Singh / The National
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What drives artists to do what they do? Is it the fame they can gain from having it exhibited in a prestigious gallery? Or is it the sheer joy that can be had by creating something that is appreciated by others?

In the case of Nathaniel Alapide, perhaps the last explanation is the most appropriate. Given that his medium is wet sand below the high-tide mark on Jumeirah beach in Dubai, his work is ephemeral. But it is also quite beautiful and heartfelt.

Alapide started drawing in the sand as a tribute to his late grandmother. He now creates work each day for the pleasure of guests at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel and other beach users.

His most recent work was a celebration of Eid that will have been washed away by the tide well before you read this. But the thing about great art is that it doesn’t have to last for ever to leave an impression that persists through time.

We join him in wishing our readers a happy Eid Al Adha.