The Artist Bridging Oman's Traditional Past and Contemporary Future

Observer

25-06-2025

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 tradition.Despite 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.