Omani Women’s Day: 6 Creatives Who Are Making Waves Globally
In honour of Omani Women’s Day today, Bazaar Arabia compiles a list of women who are taking creativitiy in the Sultanate to greater heights
In 1975, Oman embarked on its international artistic journey. The discovery of Stone Age cave drawings and ancient writings from the pre-Islamic era solidified the Sultanate’s significance in the global heritage landscape. This historical find not only showcased Oman’s rich cultural legacy but also established it as a hub of ancient civilisations. More recently, female creatives have emerged amidst the ever-changing cultural landscape and explored this in many ways, with Art forming as one facet of Oman’s vibrant creative space. These talented women weave narratives that transcend boundaries, enriching the country’s diverse artistic heritage.
In honour of Omani Women’s Day today, Harper’s Bazaar Arabia compiles a list of six female creatives who are making waves globally…
Alia Farsi
The Alia Gallery, inaugurated amidst the pandemic, stands as the Sultanate’s largest private art space. This visionary venture was led by the esteemed artist whose illustrious career spans several decades. Her artistic journey has taken her across the globe, exhibiting in prestigious cities, including Paris, Brussels, Seoul, Venice, and Tokyo. Over two fruitful decades, she has showcased her creativity in more than 20 countries, leaving an indelible mark on the international art scene. Alia’s profound understanding of identity and artistry positions her as a vital force, particularly for women in the field, and a role model for creatives in the Sultanate who dream of a career that takes them to many corners of the world.
Mays Al Moosawi
Mays Al Moosawi is a gifted visual artist from Muscat, Oman. Her work centres around visually articulating the essence of the feminine self, a theme deeply inspired by her personal observations of women in Omani society and beyond. Mays’ identity is profoundly important to her art. Balancing capturing vulnerabilities and challenges faced by women, while also empowering her community. Her art captures connections and moments shared by women in private spaces, her pieces serve as a testament to the rich tapestry of women’s experiences in contemporary Omani Society.
Jokha Alharthi
Celestial Bodies, her magnum opus, was incredibly well received and won the prestigious International Booker Prize in 2019. This compelling novel meticulously traces the lives of three generations within a single Omani family, navigating the intricate tapestry of events that have shaped Oman over decades. The creative’s narrative skilfully captures the multifaceted essence of her homeland. With a delicate touch, she tenderly examines the evolving socio-cultural landscape under the watchful eye of the Sultanate, skilfully intertwining tenderness with incisive critique. Through her artful storytelling, Alharthi paints a vivid portrait of Oman’s complexities, making Celestial Bodies a literary gem that resonates far beyond its pages.
Eman Ali
Eman Ali is an Omani photographer and visual artist based in London. Through her lens, she critiques society, delving into the multilayered histories of the Gulf. Her art serves as a potent manifestation of her Omani heritage, sparking crucial conversations worldwide. With every frame, she crafts compelling narratives, bridging cultures and challenging stereotypes, making her a pioneering force in the global discourse on social change and self-discovery.
Alya Al Battashi and Rihab Al Zakwani
The Omani Architect duo co-founded the Muscat-based firm ISTUDIO. They are renowned for their innovation and incorporation of Omani culture into structures. Their masterpiece, the Oman Pavilion at Expo Dubai 2020, showcased their creativity and garnered international acclaim, a significant feat considering they were the youngest applicants at the time. Their contribution not only exemplifies their talent but also inspires a new generation of female creatives in Oman.
Lead image from Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s December 2022 issue.