In the world of Saudi visual arts, Dima Abdullah stands out as a sculptor par excellence, skillfully using clay to bring her imaginative visions to life. Her journey in the realm of art is a testament to the power of personal stories and universal narratives coming together in creative harmony.
From an early age, Abdullah found her calling in the tactile experience of sculpting with heat-resistant clay. This medium, malleable and responsive, became her tool for expressing a world of ideas and emotions. “Sculpting and modeling with clay since my childhood has been a magical journey that defined my artistic world,” Abdullah shared with Arab News.
Abdullah’s artistic exploration didn't just stop with clay. She ventured into diverse domains within visual arts, including traditional painting and mural drawing. This expansion of her artistic palette has only added depth and versatility to her work.
At the heart of Abdullah’s creations is the importance of personal narrative. Each project she undertakes is deeply connected to her own experiences and memories. She cited “Miss Warda,” a piece inspired by cherished moments spent planting roses with her grandfather, and “Sheikha Sambusa,” a character born out of the cultural celebrations of Ramadan.
Her work also resonates with broader, universal themes. A notable example is her sculpture “Jabal Tuwaiq,” which embodies the spirit of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Through this piece, Abdullah draws a parallel between the resilience of Saudi citizens and the formidable Jabal Tuwaiq mountain range, symbolizing unity and strength.
Aspiring to innovate continually in her art, Abdullah believes in the power of persistence and focused experimentation. “Personal development is crucial for an artist’s journey,” she says, emphasizing the need for artists to carve out their unique space through dedication and innovation.
While Abdullah values the journey of solo learning, she also advocates for community engagement. She encourages fellow artists to partake in training courses, exhibitions, and social gatherings to exchange knowledge and experiences.
With increasing awareness and appreciation of art in the Kingdom, Abdullah revels in the joy of real-world interactions and the support she receives on social media. Engaging her audience in her creative process adds another layer of fulfillment to her work.
In her latest venture, Abdullah launched Damzon, a store where art enthusiasts can purchase her exclusive works and sign up for training courses in the field. Damzon is not just a store; it’s a gateway for others to explore and appreciate the art of sculpting.
Dima Abdullah’s journey in art is more than just an individual success story; it’s a reflection of the burgeoning Saudi art scene, where personal tales intertwine with cultural narratives to create compelling visual stories.
