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Saudi contemporary artist Zahrah Al-Ghamdi has emerged as the victor of the prestigious 2023-24 Hayy Jameel Facade Commission. This esteemed recognition places her at the forefront of the art world, as she is chosen to create a remarkable public artwork that will grace the façade of a prominent building in Jeddah. As a professor of visual art and design at the University of Jeddah, Al-Ghamdi’s exceptional talent and creative vision have earned her this opportunity to merge her artistic expression with the urban landscape.Her winning proposal, titled “The Cell,” embodies her distinctive approach of harmoniously integrating art with its surroundings, making it an integral part of the architectural canvas.In the wake of this accomplishment, Al-Ghamdi expressed a range of emotions, from excitement and pride to a sense of responsibility and pressure. She recognizes the significance of others appreciating the essence of her work and the challenge of meeting the high expectations of her audience.Al-Ghamdi’s artistic aspiration transcends borders, aiming to create a universal concept that resonates with people from diverse walks of life, regardless of their nationality or culture. Her intention is to tap into the common threads of human thoughts and emotions that bind humanity together.Come December, the unveiling of Al-Ghamdi’s façade design will invite the public to engage with her creation, as it emerges as a striking testament to her artistic prowess and her ability to create a visual narrative that speaks to a wide range of viewers.Nora Razian, deputy director of arts at Art Jameel, shed light on the significance of the Hayy Jameel Facade Commission, describing it as a bridge between the creative complex and the broader city of Jeddah. The commission, now in its third iteration, brings together a global array of artists, curators, and museum directors to evaluate the proposals. Al-Ghamdi’s proposal was unanimously selected for its audacious vision, large-scale material experimentation, and transformative potential for the urban landscape.With the “The Cell,” the commission once again showcases its commitment to nurturing innovative public art and fostering the creative community, all while leaving an indelible mark on the urban fabric of Jeddah.The esteemed jury for the Facade Commission, comprising luminaries in the art world including Saudi artist Manal Al-Dowayan, Nabila Abdel Nabi, curator of international art at the Tate Modern, and Sheena Wagstaff, chair of modern and contemporary arts at The Met Museum, recognized the exceptional artistic contributions and innovative approaches of the shortlisted artists. A special mention was accorded to Basmah Felemban, Abeer Sultan, Mubarak Mahdi, and Sarah Al-Abdali.This annual program offers a unique platform for a single artist or collective to showcase their work to the public, transcending traditional gallery spaces and inviting engagement within the city’s architectural tapestry. This year’s commission follows the previous edition’s awardee, Mohammed Alfaraj, whose artwork “The Face of the City” will continue to captivate spectators until December.Zahrah Al-Ghamdi’s triumph in securing the Hayy Jameel Facade Commission is not only a recognition of her artistic excellence but also a testament to the enduring impact of art on urban landscapes. Her creation “The Cell” promises to be a beacon of creativity and a conversation-starter that enriches the visual narrative of Jeddah’s architectural panorama.
