Between Flesh and Land
Between Flesh and Earth is an evocative exhibition that delves into the intimate relationship between the human form and the natural world, expressed through the stark elegance of black and white imagery. Stripping away distractions, the artworks expose a raw interplay of presence and absence, strength and vulnerability. The figures, whether human or natural, seem to exist in a liminal space, suspended between the tangible and the ethereal, where flesh meets earth. This intersection becomes a canvas for exploring the profound connections between physicality and spirit, inviting viewers to engage with the rhythms and tensions that bind us to the natural world. This exhibition is a meditation on the harmony between body, soul, and land, uncovering the unseen energies that flow between humanity and nature. It offers a visual narrative of interdependence, where the human form is not separate from the earth but a vital thread in its story. Through the striking contrast of light and shadow, Between Flesh and Earth beckons us to consider our place in this delicate balance, highlighting the shared forces that shape life. The works invite reflection on our deep-rooted connection to the elements, serving as a poignant reminder of the symbiotic relationship that sustains both our physical existence and the world we inhabit.
About the participants
Asayel Abdullah
Asayel Abdulla is a gifted visual artist from the United Arab Emirates whose work embodies the essence of her surroundings, culture, and personal experiences. With a strong passion for the arts, Asayel has mastered various mediums, including printmaking, photography, and sculpture, refining her skills during her time at Zayed University, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree. Her artwork, known for its intricate details and emotional depth, often delves into themes of identity and community, showcasing her ability to create compelling visual narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. Asayel’s artistic journey has been marked by her active participation in notable exhibitions across the UAE and beyond. In 2022, she debuted her work at the Er’waa Al Rouh exhibition in Abu Dhabi. The following year, her creative prowess shone through at venues such as Fantastica at Sikka23 in Dubai, To Not Be Hidden at MiZa in Abu Dhabi, and Hide and Seek at Youth Hub in Abu Dhabi. Additionally, she contributed to prominent showcases like Left Unwatched at CACE in Abu Dhabi and exhibitions under the Kesra series in collaboration with Firetti Contemporary. Asayel’s artistic contributions have left a lasting impression on the regional art scene, establishing her as a rising talent in contemporary visual arts.
Aziz Abdulfattah
Aziz Abdulfattah is a visionary multidisciplinary artist whose work transcends traditional boundaries, spanning mediums such as digital design, painting, sculpting, and drawing. His artistic journey began at the age of two, sparked by a simple gift of crayons from his mother, igniting a lifelong passion for creativity. Aziz’s art is characterized by its ability to reimagine reality and uncover unseen possibilities, blending digital and physical techniques to invite viewers into worlds beyond the ordinary. Through his work, he explores themes of transformation and potential, reshaping perspectives and inspiring curiosity. Over the past 23 years, Aziz’s artistic style has evolved from pencil sketches and animal sculptures to contemporary works that challenge conventional norms. His photography, in both digital and film formats, further reflects his drive to capture and reinterpret the world around him. Aziz’s creations have achieved international acclaim, with pieces featured in private collections, including the homes of Saudi Arabian royals. In 2024, he began documenting his recent works through platforms such as his website, Instagram, and Diarbid, connecting with collectors and audiences captivated by his evocative and boundary-pushing artistry.
Maggie D’Arte
Maggie’s artistic journey is deeply rooted in her lifelong admiration for the intricate craftsmanship and symbolic depth of Japanese folding screens. From an early age, she was captivated by the elegance and storytelling these screens embodied, and this passion has fueled her creative exploration ever since. Drawing inspiration from nature, Maggie’s work reflects serene landscapes, delicate flora, and ethereal fauna, seamlessly blending traditional Japanese techniques with contemporary artistic practices. Her unique approach breathes new life into this timeless art form, crafting a visual language that is both modern and steeped in heritage. Maggie’s creations have earned international acclaim, with exhibitions in prestigious galleries worldwide, including the celebrated “Meet the Sun” exhibition in Dubai. Her works are celebrated for their sophistication, elegance, and spiritual depth, resonating deeply with audiences and critics alike. By reinterpreting the symbolic richness of Japanese folding screens, she continues to showcase nature’s serene beauty while pushing artistic boundaries. Maggie’s art not only pays homage to tradition but also invites viewers into a tranquil world where innovation and history coexist harmoniously.
Osama Ghosn
Osama Ghosn is a professional artist renowned for his portrait paintings that masterfully capture truth and realism. His passion for drawing and design shines through his meticulous attention to detail, bringing ideas to life with extraordinary precision. Since 2016, Osama has been nurturing emerging talent, training professional painters at his private center in Homs, Syria. From 2017 to 2022, he also taught drawing for the admission examinations of designers at Al-Baath University, combining technical expertise with creativity to inspire the next generation of artists. Osama’s contributions to the art world extend beyond teaching, as he has founded and participated in several prestigious exhibitions in Syria. His work was prominently featured at the Al-Baath University Painting Gallery in 2018, 2020, and 2021, earning admiration for its realism and depth. In addition to exhibitions, Osama has shared his artistic insights through special drawing programs on Syrian television, further solidifying his role as a key figure in the regional art scene. Through his dedication to both his craft and the broader art community, Osama continues to leave a lasting impact.
Rubab Zahra
Rubab Zahra is a celebrated Contemporary Calligraphy and Abstract artist who bridges the gap between traditional Arabic calligraphy and modern artistic expression. Her work is deeply rooted in preserving the sacred art of Arabic calligraphy while reimagining it for contemporary audiences. Rubab’s abstract pieces are inspired by current events, social issues, and cultural narratives, tackling themes such as inclusivity, diversity, peace, women’s empowerment, and environmental concerns. With her distinctive use of monochromes, subtle colors, and metallic accents, she creates textured, layered compositions that speak to the soul. Her versatility with acrylics, inks, and metal foils, combined with unconventional tools, brings a unique depth to her art. Despite being largely self-taught, Rubab’s achievements are remarkable, from completing a specialization at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York to designing cutting-edge collaborations like painting a modern calligraphy composition on the Bestune T99 automobile. Rubab’s talent and vision have garnered her international recognition and a place among the most prominent contemporary artists. Her works have been exhibited in prestigious venues such as the Louvre in Paris, the Moscow State Museum, and the Haegeumgang Theme Museum in South Korea, where her painting “Peace in Our Hands” is part of the permanent collection. She has collaborated with luxury brands like Gucci, Dior, and Sephora and has worked with notable platforms such as World Art Dubai and SIKKA. Rubab is the first Pakistani female visual artist to receive the UAE’s Golden Visa, a testament to her impact on the art world. Her accolades include the Wonder Mom Award in Fine Arts and the Al Zarooni Award, among others. Through her art, media features, and exhibitions, Rubab continues to inspire audiences worldwide, blending heritage, innovation, and a profound connection to humanity.
Sanaa Maarrawi
Sana is an award-winning, self-taught realism artist and interior designer based in Dubai, UAE. With a Bachelor’s degree in Architectural Engineering, her art captures the finest details of life, evoking forgotten emotions and memories. Sana’s work serves as a powerful medium to advocate for human and animal rights, highlighting issues such as wildlife crimes, endangered species, and the refugee crisis. Each piece tells a story, inviting viewers to engage with important social and environmental causes. Her commitment to these values has not only shaped her artistic journey but has also given her a distinct voice in the art world. Sana’s work has gained recognition through various exhibitions and accolades. Notable milestones include participating in Art Expo Ljubljana in Slovenia and group exhibitions like “The Best Version of You” and “Expressions” in Dubai. She has also contributed to the artistic community through live painting events, judging, and writing articles. Her accolades include winning the 2019 Artist of the Year Award in Dubai and being a finalist for the Noon Art Award in 2018. With each achievement, Sana continues to inspire through her artistry and her dedication to meaningful causes.
Sherif Zohri
Sherif is a visionary artist whose work transforms the raw simplicity of charcoal into profound expressions of human emotion. What began as a quiet hobby evolved into a passionate pursuit of storytelling through art. Charcoal, with its elemental and unfiltered quality, became his preferred medium, allowing him to convey emotions that words often fail to capture. Over the years, Sherif’s artistic journey has matured into a powerful platform for connection, inviting viewers to explore the complexities of light and shadow that define human experience. Each piece he creates is a mirror, reflecting vulnerability, strength, and the unspoken struggles we all carry, resonating deeply with those who engage with his work. Sherif’s artistic style blends traditional charcoal techniques with contemporary digital elements, creating dynamic compositions that highlight the interplay of light and darkness. His monochromatic works evoke a striking sense of depth and emotion, offering a modern perspective on classic forms of expression. Through his art, Sherif has built a brand that transcends visuals, offering a space for viewers to connect with their inner selves. Each piece is more than an image, it’s an invitation to journey into the layers of the human soul, uncovering beauty in vulnerability and hope in the shadows. For Sherif, art is not just seen; it is felt, deeply and profoundly, making his work an enduring testament to the power of emotion and connection.
Suleman Yakub
Suleman Yakub is a passionate photographer whose work bridges the worlds of motorsports, people, and nature. His journey began at just 14, when he discovered the camera as a tool to capture hidden emotions and fleeting moments. With a background in mechanical engineering, Suleman brings a unique perspective to his craft, particularly in motorsports photography, where he showcases the intricate beauty of high-performance machines. His ability to combine technical precision with artistic storytelling allows him to create visuals that resonate deeply, balancing the thrill of “cool shots” with meaningful narratives that invite reflection. Suleman’s photography is characterized by energy, emotion, and connection. His motorsport images capture the raw speed and adrenaline of the track, while his portraits and nature shots reveal a softer, more intimate side of life. Always seeking to push his creative boundaries, he has expanded into filmmaking, exploring cinematic storytelling to immerse viewers further. His work reflects a seamless fusion of art and engineering, offering a distinctive lens through which to experience the beauty and complexity of the world.