Ahmed Saber’s “Al Maqam” Re-Approaches Shrines by Art

Pasant Elzaitony

Young artist Ahmed Saber, who is an assistant researcher at the Faculty of Fine Arts, Luxor University, presents a breathtaking vision for the life and traditions of the shrines of Prophet Mohammed’s dynasty, and major religious men who were known for spiritual concepts.

[caption id="attachment_289417" align="aligncenter" width="2448"] A painting by Ahmed Saber[/caption]

He beautifully portrayed such a spiritual, inspiring world and reflected the cultural components of Upper Egypt’s people. Also, he re-scripted the world of shrines in vivid color choices, symbols, and visual expressions.

Regarding selecting the theme of the exhibition, Saber said: “Shrine mirrors the spiritual moods of Al Moled celebrations, therefore, I employed several expressive symbols.

[caption id="attachment_289415" align="aligncenter" width="906"] A painting by Ahmed Saber[/caption]

Inspired by Surrealism, I used some metaphors to refer to certain spiritual moods such as the symbols of fruits mentioned in the Holy Quran such as grapes, figs, or some traditional ones such as turtle as a symbol of a long lifetime.

The artist asserted that his exhibition is about shrines only, not Al Moled, adding that he was inspired by Sidi Abou Al-Haggag in Luxor. So, the majority of his work that was dedicated to this experience was executed in two main colors: white, and black.

[caption id="attachment_289412" align="aligncenter" width="922"] A painting by Ahmed Saber[/caption]

Furthermore, he employs some of heaven’s fruits such as figs and grapes to reflect ascension, while women identify that visiting shrines are not restricted to a certain class, or category, however, it is connected to all society’s levels in various cities.

It’s worthy to mention that the exhibition lasts until December 8 at Safar Khan Gallery.

Contributed by: Rana Atef

[caption id="attachment_289408" align="aligncenter" width="1837"] A painting by young artist[/caption]