JEDDAH: A Jeddah art studio is setting out to help people of all ages — from children to adults — unlock their artistic potential in a relaxed and inspiring environment.
Sarah Kutbi, founder of the SK Art Studio, believes art’s role is boundless and can even be a form of expressive therapy that allows people to express their emotions in a healthy way, improving their well-being.
“People are starting to realize and understand the value of art, and are investing more in the talents of the younger generation,” she told Arab News. Kutbi discovered her passion for art when she was only eight, and recalls experimenting with colors, paints and brushes.
The young Saudi artist improved her talent and knowledge by studying art history and exploring the work of the great masters. She also studied at art institutes in Jeddah and at the Chelsea College of Art in London.
Today she paints in her small studio, surrounded by art pieces created by herself and her students.
The studio opened two months ago, and now offers advanced workshops for adults and classes for beginners of all ages. The studio holds several workshops a month, with classes of two or three hours for adults and children aged 6 and above.
“I believe that art has no age, but I like to focus on younger talents as I believe they have potential that needs to be grasped and developed early,” Kutbi said.
She came up with the idea for the studio a few years ago and, with support from friends and family, was able to bring it to life.
“I tried to create a comfortable and inspiring space with all the necessary tools to help people learn and explore.” Kutbi produces paintings on canvas using oil, charcoal and acrylic paint. She said that her style is never constant and always changing.
“I haven’t reached the maturity level I’m aiming for. I believe, as the great Leonardo da Vinci said: ‘Art is never finished, only abandoned.’ Right now I find myself more fascinated with pop serialism.”
At the studio, Kutbi joins several professional trainers and art coaches to teach students different styles of art, such as portraits, abstracts and nature.
The creative scene in Saudi Arabia is witnessing a renaissance with new art galleries opening, and art events and exhibitions encouraging artists such as Kutbi to display their work.
The artist believes that there is a lot of hidden talent in the country that she hopes her studio can help uncover.
“This is the reason I opened the studio. I want to help people discover their talents from an early age. I recognize from personal experience that one needs to develop this gift by learning different techniques and approaches, which I don’t believe can be taught in school,” she said.
In the future, Kutbi hopes to expand the studio and create a hub for the artistic community, a place where people can meet and celebrate their creativity.
