An artist's bold reimagination of the Epic of Gilgamesh at Stal Gallery
Rooted in the cultural wealth of Mesopotamia, Gilgamesh: Symbols and Connotations presents the world's oldest epic through a strikingly modern visual language. 'This exhibition unfolds the timeless Epic of Gilgamesh through the expressive strokes of a contemporary brush,' Kalash explains. 'Inspired by Mesopotamian heritage, the works portray Gilgamesh not merely as a legendary king, but as a universal symbol of humanity's eternal search—for meaning, friendship, transcendence, and immortality.'
An artist's bold reimagination of the Epic of Gilgamesh at Stal Gallery
Each painting offers a poetic exploration of key moments from the epic: Enkidu's creation, the battle in the Cedar Forest, the Great Flood, the serpent, and the quest for eternal life. These themes emerge through symbolic forms, abstract compositions, and layered visual metaphors that invite deep reflection. Kalash's artistic vision is as personal as it is historical. 'The inspiration behind Gilgamesh: Symbols and Connotations was born from a profound connection to the cultural legacy of Mesopotamia—the cradle of civilisation and my ancestral land,' he shares. 'The epic offered a timeless mirror reflecting the essence of human existence: the struggle with mortality, the thirst for knowledge, the power of friendship, and the eternal quest for meaning.'
An artist's bold reimagination of the Epic of Gilgamesh at Stal Gallery
What sets this collection apart is how Kalash treats the myth as a living narrative that still resonates today. 'Amidst the noise of modern life and the fragmentation of identity, Gilgamesh emerged as a symbol of continuity, introspection, and resilience,' he notes.
That introspection is tangible across the canvases, many of which resemble ancient ruins brought to life—etched with bull horns, faded inscriptions, and fractured forms. One piece features a kneeling, blue-hued figure caught mid-transformation, surrounded by symbolic orbs and grids. Another overlays winged beasts and warriors with stamp-like motifs and vibrant colour, echoing the epic's chaos and complexity.
'The creative process was fuelled by personal experiences of exile, longing, and the search for belonging—parallels to Gilgamesh's own journey of loss and discovery,' Kalash reflects. 'Each canvas became a meeting point of memory and imagination—a conversation across centuries.'
An artist's bold reimagination of the Epic of Gilgamesh at Stal Gallery
Dr. Sabeeh Kalash, born in Baghdad in 1948, is one of the Arab world's most respected contemporary artists. He holds a PhD in Contemporary Art History from Sorbonne University in Paris and has taught at leading institutions including the University of Baghdad, Yarmouk University, Al-Mustansiriya University, and Sultan Qaboos University, where he chaired the Art Education Department until 2014. His work—shown in over a dozen countries—is widely recognised for exploring themes of memory, mythology, and identity. In 2020, he received first prize in Oman's international art competition on the COVID-19 pandemic.
An artist's bold reimagination of the Epic of Gilgamesh at Stal Gallery
Presented at Stal Gallery, known for fostering cross-cultural dialogue through contemporary art, this exhibition offers more than an artistic reinterpretation—it is a thoughtful excavation of meaning and myth. Gilgamesh: Symbols and Connotations reflects the enduring power of storytelling and the timeless relevance of the human journey.
The exhibition is open to the public until 22 April at Stal Gallery, Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos, Muscat. Visitors are invited to step into a world where memory and myth converge—where the figure of Gilgamesh walks again, not through ancient clay tablets, but across canvases alive with colour, symbolism, and emotional depth.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Observer
6 days ago
- Observer
Stal Gallery's summer exhibition explores confluence of cultural memory and modern identity
Stal Gallery & Studio has officially opened its annual summer exhibition, Summer 2025: The Contemporary Perspective, inviting the public into a vibrant conversation about Oman's evolving artistic identity. The exhibition, which runs until 31 August at the gallery's space in Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos, Muscat, showcases works by seven Omani artists—each exploring the complex intersections of memory, place, and personal expression. The exhibition draws from a wide palette of mediums and artistic approaches. From abstract painting and mixed-media installations to textile-based pieces and narrative collages, the works reflect a deeply personal yet collectively resonant engagement with the past and present. The exhibition explores a cultural moment where Oman's past and present are in constant dialogue. Each artist brings a distinct emotional frequency, shaped by their materials and their relationship to identity, memory, and landscape. Together, their voices build a mosaic that speaks not only to the soul of the region but to the universal impulse to preserve and reinterpret who we are. Among the featured artists is H.H Sayyida Afra Talal Al Said, whose work is being exhibited at Stal Gallery for the first time. Her debut marks a significant moment, not only in her personal artistic journey but within the larger context of contemporary art in Oman. In Shades of Oman, she introduces a series of mixed-media paintings that blend traditional Omani fabrics with the natural motif of palm frond shadows—a familiar sight across the Omani landscape. The layered textures, subtle colour palettes, and fabric integrations offer a meditative experience for the viewer. Drawing from her deep connection to nature and the textures of local life, her works move between the physical and the emotional, between what is seen and what is remembered. H.H Sayyida Afra Talal Al Said's use of materials is intentional and symbolic. The textiles speak to cultural heritage, while the soft interplay of shadow and colour creates a contemplative atmosphere. Her technique offers a quiet, almost spiritual paints not only what she observes, but what she holds within—memories, landscapes, and emotions filtered through texture and tone. Also featured is Anwar Sonya, a pioneering figure in Oman's contemporary art scene. Known for his bold, expressionist style, Sonya revisits the traditional bullfighting rituals of Mussanah, translating the raw energy and cultural symbolism of these events into powerful, colour-saturated canvases. His work serves as a visual archive, capturing a tradition that is both visceral and deeply rooted in Omani heritage. Idris Al Hooti contributes a quietly nostalgic series titled Mutrah Memories, portraying the subtle textures of Muscat's historic district—palm trees silhouetted against fading buildings, quiet streets imbued with memory. His brushstrokes carry a sense of longing, inviting viewers to reflect on spaces that are disappearing or transforming with time. In contrast, Omani artist Hassan Meer—a pivotal figure in the country's contemporary art scene, with exhibitions both locally and internationally—presents a series of deeply personal impasto paintings that explore themes of identity and metaphysics. Works such as Father and Son and Omani Women Gathering use thick, expressive strokes to convey themes of family, collective memory, and spiritual continuity. Meer's art often delves into the unseen—the emotions and cultural threads that bind generations together. Suha Salim, an emerging voice in the Omani art scene, introduces a new cubist-inspired series titled Distraction. Her fragmented compositions explore the mental and emotional fragmentation of modern life. Through sharp angles, layered geometries, and disjointed forms, her work examines interiority—what lies beneath the surface of daily experience. Hussain Obaid, long regarded for his contributions to Oman's contemporary plastic art movement, returns with compositions rooted in ancient Omani visual symbols. His work layers history with abstraction, inviting viewers to decode motifs drawn from tribal patterns, maritime heritage, and desert iconography. His pieces act as bridges—linking the ancestral past with the visual language of today. Completing the exhibition is the late Moosa Omar, whose final series Hearts of Departed reflects his lifelong engagement with the environment and spirituality. Using jute—a humble material common in Omani crafts—he forms textured, circular compositions that evoke both the physical terrain and the metaphysical. His work is a quiet tribute to memory and loss, grounded in earth tones and tactile presence. Together, the seven artists offer not only a survey of Omani contemporary practice but a shared meditation on themes of identity, place, and transformation. Through their distinct voices, the exhibition captures a moment in time—one that holds space for tradition while embracing innovation. The Contemporary Perspective is more than an art show—it's a living archive of how Oman's artists are responding to the world around them. It's about how they remember, how they reinterpret, and how they imagine what's next. The exhibition is open to the public and free of charge until 31 August 2025, at Stal Gallery & Studio, Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos, Muscat. Visitors are encouraged to experience the full breadth of the works on display—and to engage with the stories embedded in every piece.
Observer
25-06-2025
- Observer
The Artist Bridging Oman's Traditional Past and Contemporary Future
Born in 1948, Anwar Sonya is one of Oman's pioneering and most revered artists. He is a storyteller at heart, transforming the country's vibrant landscapes, bustling markets, and rich cultural rituals into timeless works of art. Like ink spreading through water, his vision is infused with stillness and depth, shaping how Oman perceives its own heritage today. Sonya's canvases seamlessly blend realism, impressionism, and figurative styles, driven by a profound devotion not only to aesthetics but also to national identity. From the fishermen of Sur to the frankincense harvesters of Dhofar, his brushwork elevates everyday Omani life into a lasting cultural legacy. The Artist Bridging Oman's Traditional Past and Contemporary Future 'Sonya's recent works (2024–2025) offer an immersive glimpse into daily Omani life,' writes gallerist and curator Volodymyra Sobolevska, who has curated several exhibitions at Stal Gallery and Studio. 'Set against the backdrop of places like the souq, traditional Friday markets, and the corniche, his characters are transformed into cultural icons through posture, gesture, and dress.' His distinctive style captures the hustle of busy souqs, the rhythmic bustle of animal markets, and the swirling energy of traditional Omani dances. Recently, he has begun integrating Arabic calligraphy into his art — layering the spoken words of his subjects directly onto his canvases. The result? Visual poetry that not only depicts Oman but speaks its soul. The Artist Bridging Oman's Traditional Past and Contemporary Future His latest series celebrates the dynamic joy of folk dances such as Razha and Haboot, and ceremonial moments from Omani weddings steeped in tradition. Whether it's the clash of swords or the beating of drums, Sonya's vibrant compositions pulse with movement. These dances go beyond mere spectacle; they are powerful reflections of memory, pride, and community — feelings he vividly captures with each stroke. His work vividly brings to life places like Salalah, Dhofar, Musannah, and Mutrah, creating emotional landscapes filled with memory, motion, and identity — portals into Oman's layered past. Mutrah, Muscat's historic port and commercial hub, is portrayed not as a static skyline but as a living entity shaped by generations of merchants, sailors, and artisans. The Artist Bridging Oman's Traditional Past and Contemporary Future 'These aren't just backgrounds,' Sobolevska notes. 'They are characters in their own right — settings that speak to Oman's soul.' In Sonya's art, place is never passive; it holds memories, embodies tradition, and whispers the rhythms of daily life and celebration. Whether it's the coastal glow of Mutrah or the festive grandeur of Dhofar, each location adds depth and authenticity to his storytelling. Beyond gallery walls, Anwar Sonya is a dedicated mentor, teacher, and cultural philanthropist. His influence extends through workshops at the Omani Society for Fine Arts, artist talks, and mentorship at Stal Gallery. His presence is magnetic, inspiring future generations. The Artist Bridging Oman's Traditional Past and Contemporary Future 'His practice reaches far beyond the canvas,' says Sobolevska. 'He commits himself to charitable causes, organises community events, and actively supports emerging artists. Sonya bridges tradition and innovation, nurturing both seasoned masters and young aspirants alike.' Over the decades, Sonya has carried Oman's artistic identity onto the international stage. From his earliest exhibitions in the 1970s to recent appearances at the Gulf Arts Symposium (Bahrain, 2025), 'Redrawing the Boundaries' at Hayy Jameel (Saudi Arabia, 2025), and the Venice Biennale (Oman Pavilion, 2022), his global journey is testament to his enduring influence. The Artist Bridging Oman's Traditional Past and Contemporary Future A pivotal moment came in 2000 during The Circle Show, curated by Hassan Meer — Oman's first exhibition dedicated to contemporary and conceptual art. It marked a daring shift, with Sonya and other avant-garde artists daring to push aesthetic frontiers beyond international recognition, Sonya remains rooted in one core belief: art must come from the heart. 'If you create art solely for profit, you will fail,' he asserts. 'You must love your country, and be honest — in your heart and in your work — with your people.' To him, true success isn't measured by awards or gallery openings but by silent recognition — a viewer pausing, connecting, and saying, 'I see myself in this.' Anwar Sonya Today, Anwar Sonya is more than an artist; he is a cultural pillar, a guardian of collective memory, and a mirror reflecting Oman's beauty and identity. With every canvas, he invites us to witness a nation — not just through its history or architecture, but through its people: their faces, their dances, their stories. He is currently represented by Stal Gallery and Studio in Muscat, where his work continues to inspire, provoke, and preserve. In an age of fleeting images and transient trends, Sonya's art endures — slow, textured, and deeply human, just like the land he lovingly captures.
Observer
29-04-2025
- Observer
French Weeks highlights photographer's tribute to a timeless land
As visitors step through the threshold of the Stal Gallery in Muscat, they are greeted by a vivid tapestry of images that beckon them to unravel the story of Oman through the lens of French-Syrian photographer Ammar Abd Rabbo. The air thrums with anticipation, a palpable connection forming between the observer and the world captured within each frame. Abd Rabbo's photographs transcend mere visuals; they are portals that transport onlookers into the heart of Omani life – where the stones speak of ancient histories, the faces reflect the dignity of everyday existence, and the landscapes hum with a silent poetry. It is an invitation to connect, to reflect, and to experience a cultural dialogue rich with emotion and insight. French Weeks highlights photographer's tribute to a timeless land Organised in collaboration with the French Embassy in Oman, this exhibition is a key highlight of the "French Weeks" programme, a vibrant celebration of Franco-Omani relations through art, dialogue, and exchange. This marks the first time Ammar Abd Rabbo shares his personal archive of Oman with the public, bringing forth a collection titled 'Oman In My Eyes.' The exhibition features 37 exquisite images, drawn from nearly three decades of his journey which began with his initial visit to the Sultanate in 1996. The photographs encapsulate evocative portraits, traditional ceremonies, snapshots of everyday life, street photography, and rare moments from national sporting events of the past. They portray not only the physical evolution of Oman but also the profound connection and affection Abd Rabbo has developed for the country. 'Oman has never left me,' he expresses. "Since my first journey in 1996, almost 30 years ago, this country has etched into me its lines of stone and light, its silent and dignified faces, its still poetry within movement." For Abd Rabbo, photography transcends mere documentation; it is 'a kind of poetry and music' – a unique form of visual storytelling that seeks to elicit contemplation and emotional resonance. French Weeks highlights photographer's tribute to a timeless land What distinguishes this exhibition is the humanistic and lyrical perspective he employs in portraying his subjects. Abd Rabbo's art avoids the snares of spectacle and formality, opting instead to honour the quiet dignity woven into the fabric of daily life, reflecting the timeless essence of a country in transition. His photographs resonate with both personal and universal themes, encouraging viewers to pause and ponder the concepts of identity, change, and memory. Born in Damascus in 1966, Ammar Abd Rabbo's early life was spent in Libya and Lebanon before he moved to France in 1978, following the outbreak of the Lebanese Civil War. A student of political science at the Institut d'Études Politiques de Paris, he ventured into photojournalism with renowned agencies such as Sygma, Sipa Press, and AFP. Over the past thirty years, his work has graced more than a hundred magazine and book covers and found its way into leading international publications including Time Magazine, Le Monde, Paris Match, Der Spiegel, and Asharq Al Awsat. French Weeks highlights photographer's tribute to a timeless land His lens has traversed a myriad of subjects, capturing the stark realities of war in Iraq, Libya, Lebanon, and Syria, alongside significant global events like the Cannes Film Festival and Paris Fashion Week. Abd Rabbo's portraits of renowned figures, such as world leaders and cultural icons like Michael Jackson and Stephen Hawking, sit alongside tender depictions of ordinary people navigating extraordinary challenges. In conflict zones, he chooses to focus not on combat, but on the resilience of civilians – a perspective central to his poignant 2016 photo book Alep, À Elles Eux Paix. Abd Rabbo's work has been showcased globally in esteemed institutions and cultural events, including Banksy's Dismaland in the UK, the Venice Biennale, MAXXI Museum in Rome, and the Institut du Monde Arabe in Paris. He has held solo exhibitions in cities like Doha, Dubai, Beirut, and Paris, and in 2018, he was honoured with the title of Chevalier of the French Order of Arts and Letters, recognising his meaningful contributions to the arts. French Weeks highlights photographer's tribute to a timeless land In 'Oman In My Eyes,' Ammar Abd Rabbo invites visitors to engage with his ongoing relationship with the Sultanate – a journey enriched by admiration, curiosity, and profound emotional resonance. Each image serves as a thoughtful meditation on place and presence, offering a rare and timeless view of Oman through the eyes of a seasoned storyteller. This exhibition promises to attract a diverse audience – from art enthusiasts and cultural historians to photography aficionados and members of the Franco-Omani community. It pays tribute to Oman's evolving landscape while celebrating the enduring connections fostered through art and cultural exchange. Visitors are heartily invited to explore this powerful visual narrative and immerse themselves in Oman as seen through the discerning eyes of a photographer whose work resonates with both gentleness and depth. The exhibition will be open to the public from 27 April to 12 May 2025 at Stal Gallery Ammar Abd Rabbo
