RIYADH: In his latest exhibition, Saudi artist Mohammed Al-Aameri is presenting his own take on cubism and fauvism — with a Saudi twist.
“Red Line” at Kenz Gallery in the Al-Mousa Center, Riyadh, is on show until Sept. 20. The works on display draw particular inspiration from fauvism, an early 20th-century art movement known for its bold colors and expressive brushwork, favoring emotional expression through color over strict adherence to realism.
“Red Line” marks a pivotal moment in Al-Aameri’s artistic journey. (Photo/Rahaf Jambi)
Al-Aameri told Arab News, “My exhibition focuses on expressing feelings and emotions as an alternative to realistic photography, while mixing my own style with techniques inspired by fauvism and cubism. Although fauvism was short-lived, it laid the groundwork for many modern-art movements.”
“Red Line” is the result of an artistic journey that spans decades. Al-Aameri’s paintings encapsulate stories, emotions, and cultural heritage.
Through my research, travel, and interaction with many (international) artists, I aim to revive the innovative spirit of these schools in my own style, presenting it in a new and distinctive way in Saudi Arabia.
Mohammed Al-Aameri, Saudi artist
“Through my research, travel, and interaction with many (international) artists, I aim to revive the innovative spirit of these schools in my own style, presenting it in a new and distinctive way in Saudi Arabia,” the 55-year-old artist said.
By tapping into modern art movements that push boundaries Mohammed Al-Aameri’s goal is to challenge the status quo and inspire emerging artists to think beyond conventional methods. (Photo/Rahaf Jambi)
“Red Line” consists of 20 works, including paintings that feature figures in traditional Saudi attire rendered in a vibrant palette that contrasts sharply with the muted colors typically associated with historical representations of the region.
“I love colors, and aim to express a spectrum in my paintings,” he said. “It’s a form of rebellion against the past, where we were often limited to dull landscapes of brown and green.”
Mohammed Al-Aameri, Saudi artist
Al-Aameri’s work is also deeply inspired by his childhood memories. These recollections provide a backdrop to his artistic expression, allowing him to weave personal history into his works.
At 19, Al-Aameri became enamored with Picasso’s art after seeing it in a magazine. “His work touched me and encouraged me to explore cubism,” he said. “I had been drawing in a classical style, but Picasso’s art showed me the potential to break boundaries. Cubism requires a deep understanding of geometry, which fascinated me.”
By tapping into modern art movements that push boundaries Mohammed Al-Aameri’s goal is to challenge the status quo and inspire emerging artists to think beyond conventional methods. (Photo/Rahaf Jambi)
This newfound passion led to opportunities for training with international artists in France and Florence, enriching his artistic perspective.
Al-Aameri’s goal is to challenge the status quo and inspire emerging artists to think beyond conventional methods. “I aim to elevate the concept of art in Saudi Arabia, as many artists are still confined to traditional approaches,” he said.
His own artistic journey began at a young age. “I discovered my love for drawing at eight, inspired by my mother … my first portrait was of King Khaled, which amazed everyone and ignited my passion for art,” he said.
At 16, Al-Aameri sold his first painting—a watercolor depicting a Bedouin woman spinning wool. “The piece was filled with warm colors representing the Saudi environment,” he recalls. This artwork caught the attention of a British collector and was sold for SR3,500 ($933).
“Red Line” marks a pivotal moment in Al-Aameri’s artistic journey, showcasing not only his skill but also his vision for the future of art in Saudi Arabia.
“The exhibition is a celebration of art’s power to transcend limitations and connect with deeper truths,” he said.
