(MENAFN- The Peninsula)
Doha: The unique charm of ancient Damascene architecture has been captured on canvas by Syrian artist Salah Eddin Al Bizri now on show at the 'Damascus, Levant exhibition unveiled yesterday at Katara Cultural Village.
Considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Damascus has amazed many people not only for its historic monuments but also for the distinct style of old houses and buildings.
Using oil and acrylic, the artist, who hails from Damascus, expressed his love and memory of the city that nurtured him through the 15 paintings on display at his first solo exhibition in Katara.
'I wanted to show what is in my imagination about my city, the colourful nature and unique architecture of my city, Al Bizri told The Peninsula.
The winding alleys along the alluring exteriors of the houses in neighbourhoods with their doors, windows and facades designed with characteristic geometric lines were depicted by the artist using vibrant colours. The stunningly designed structures are even made alive with the presence of green-and-white jasmine plants.
'I painted the structures with a lot of jasmine flowers the city has been known for. Damascus is often called 'The City of Jasmine after the flower which has a distinct magnificent fragrance, he said.
One of the works exhibited shows Al Bizri's depiction of the spectacular courtyard of Khan Asaad Pasha, one of the earliest and most popular caravanserai in the world and a major monument in Damascus.
It took the artist time to create some of the paintings from a month to over two months 'to reflect on the shadows which are as crucial as his choice of particular hues to employ. On having his first exhibition in Katara, he said: 'This is the first time I'm exhibiting in Katara, which is a wonderful place to exhibit. I want to thank Katara for giving me this opportunity to display my paintings here.
Katara General Manager Prof. Dr. Khalid bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti led the launch of the exhibition which is a partnership between Katara and the Syrian Embassy in Qatar. He noted that Katara opens doors of cooperation with various embassies to jointly work on different events and exhibitions in line with its cultural mission.
He said the exhibition introduces Katara's visitors from various nationalities to Damascus with its vibrant culture, art, and heritage significantly linked to the history of humanity. He stressed art as a common language of humanity and Katara's keenness to bring people together through art.
'Damascus, Levant exhibition runs until January 29 at Gallery 2 of Katara Building 18.
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