VENICE.- The Sultanate of Oman has officially revealed its second national Pavilion at the 60th International Art Exhibition - La Biennale di Venezia. The exhibition, titled "Malath-Haven," will run from April 20 to November 24, 2024.
Curated by Alia Al Farsi and titled “Malath-Haven”, the exhibition presents new artworks by five prominent Omani contemporary artists: Ali Al Jabri, Essa Al Mufarji, Sarah Al Olaqi, Adham Al Farsi and Alia Al Farsi.
In line with the Biennale Arte's theme for the year, "Foreigners everywhere," the artists, hailing from various backgrounds, join forces to capture the essence of Oman's multicultural legacy.
Drawing inspiration from this core concept of "Malath", in Arabic “harbour”, the exhibition invites visitors on an artistic journey, echoing Oman's tradition of offering refuge to individuals from distant lands. Through diverse artistic mediums, each work embodies the theme of "Malath," exploring pillars such as language, food, architecture, attire, and arts. From symbolic representations using local materials to reflections on the search for belonging, the artworks collectively evoke profound narratives of solace and inclusivity.
The works:
Alia al Farsi’s work - Alia’s Alleys - delves into transforming her timeless cityscapes into an immersive journey, enveloping visitors in garments that symbolise the rich cultural tapestry of Oman. Mirrors surround the space, reflecting an infinite array of these garments and the cityscape painting, echoing a powerful message: Oman has long been a welcoming sanctuary for individuals of diverse backgrounds. This amalgamation of cultures has blossomed into the harmonious blend that defines the country today, portraying Oman as a cherished home for all.
When someone leaves their home, they often journey to escape their reality or to seek a brighter future. Ali al Jabri’s work, Water, beautifully captures the concept of luck in finding a better life by likening it to peering into a well. In this metaphor, one may discover either water or emptiness. In Al-Jabri's sculptures, each well is adorned with unique colours, symbolising diversity, while their bases remain uniform, representing our common origins as humans. As the sculptures ascend, they illustrate how societies and experiences shape us differently over time. The inclusion of dead wood within his vibrant marble figures echoes a Quranic verse: "He brings forth the living from the dead and brings forth the dead from the living."
In Madad, Essa al Mufarji unveils the subtle yet profound ways in which languages and terminologies are molded by external influences. His installation is a testament to this nuanced understanding, presenting viewers with a display of Arabic calligraphy inspired by poetry crafted over a millennium ago, exploring themes of immigration and foreignness with a timeless elegance. Al Mufarji invites us to ponder the enduring legacy of these ancient poets, whose words continue to resonate across the ages, shaping our perceptions and experiences of migration and cultural exchange.
In Breaking Bread by Sarah al Oalqi, the message conveyed is a celebration of cultural heritage and the power of art to transcend everyday objects. The installation aims to evoke a sense of appreciation for the rich traditions of Omani women, preserving family recipes and quietly shaping the narrative of their lineage and clothing, specifically the niqab. (A piece of cloth that women used in ancient times to cover part of their face). The use of spoons in the installation represents the transformation of ordinary utensils into a symbolic representation of cultural identity. The spoons serve as a metaphor for the collective strength and resilience of Omani women, who have gracefully embraced their traditions while navigating a changing world.
Adham al-Farsi's mesmerising installation The Fate of Outsiders offers viewers an enthralling visual encounter, showcasing his video art that tells the captivating tale of turtles as a metaphor for foreigners in life. Each screen portrays the two potential fates of these outsiders, one being a serene destiny, while the other depicts their unfortunate demise due to choosing the wrong path. The space effortlessly transports visitors to a beach-like setting, incorporating elements inspired by Oman's coastal heritage.
His Excellency Sayyid Saeed Al Busaidi, Commissioner, Undersecretary for the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth for Culture, said: “We are delighted to return to this enchanting city for the second time, showcasing the rich artistic heritage of our nation. Our presentation will spotlight a diverse collection of contemporary artwork created by talented Omani artists. Additionally, the Ministry is committed to fostering artistic development nationwide through various programs aligned with the Venice Exhibition. The participation of the Sultanate of Oman in the International Art Exhibition holds significant importance within the framework of intercultural dialogue and human interaction diversity. As a platform renowned for its celebration of global artistic expression, the Biennale Arte offers Oman a unique opportunity to showcase its rich cultural heritage and artistic innovation on an international stage. Through participation, Oman contributes to fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation, promoting dialogue among diverse societies, and emphasising the interconnectedness of humanity through the universal language of art. This engagement not only highlights Oman's commitment to cultural exchange but also strengthens bonds of cooperation and mutual respect among nations, ultimately enriching the global cultural landscape".
Alia Al Farsi, Curator of the Sultanate of Oman's Pavilion at the 60th International Art Exhibition - La Biennale di Venezia, said: "The four chosen artists representing the
Sultanate of Oman at the 60th International Art Exhibition have each made noteworthy and commendable contributions to their communities, effectively revitalising the contemporary art scene in Oman throughout their careers. Their impact extends beyond their artistic endeavours, serving as inspiration for new generations of artists. "
