Stories Through Pattern and Print: Utilizing Printmaking Techniques to Create Artworks Inspired by Traditional Saudi Arabian Art.

Abstract

Every nation has its own unique characteristics, which help to differentiate it from other nations. These characteristics serve as the roots of a people, connecting their present with their past, determining their future, and establishing the identity of subsequent generations of that group. The ancient history of Saudi Arabia, which extends hundreds of years, is documented by a variety of heritage sources that number in the thousands (Alghammas & Mohamed, 2021). Patterns, symbols, and calligraphy have served as some of these heritage sources, and they are the most common types of artistic expression in Saudi Arabia's history. One of these types of art is called Al-Qatt Al-Asiri, which is an ancient art practice that originated in Asir region in Saudi Arabia and was recognised by The National World Heritage in 2017. This project investigates how printmaking can be used to create a body of work that draws inspiration from the art of Al-Qatt Al-Asiri. This is done with the intention of preserving and expanding the practice of this artistic heritage using different artistic methods and various mediums. The primary objective of this project is to reinterpret Al-Qatt Al-Asiri art and emphasise printmaking’s role in enhancing and preserving this cultural heritage. This study uses a methodology based on a practice-led research approach, putting several different printmaking techniques to the test to determine the most ideally suited methods for producing original works of art that respect the spirit of Al-Qatt Al-Asiri art while simultaneously reflecting on contemporary times. The project highlighted the value of reflecting on the cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia in novel contemporary artworks to preserve and enhance its identity.