Saudi artist rolls forward with bamboo paper

Arab News

a day ago

JEDDAH: Saudi artist Jumanah Telity has found an unusual medium for her creativity: bamboo paper.
Through a labor-intensive process she transforms it into sturdy objects, from baskets and storage boxes to small-scale furniture and figurines.
'This art, like any other art, requires specific techniques, sense, and artistic thought to produce creativity,' she told Arab News. 'It differs from other arts in that it is a very strong and practical product that is used daily and also decoratively.'
Originally an educator, Telity spent 19 years in schools, eventually serving as a principal.
In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, she decided to explore her long-time fascination with natural materials such as wood, bamboo, and rattan.
That is when she discovered bamboo paper weaving online and something clicked.
• In 2020, Saudi artist Jumanah Telity decided to explore her long-time fascination with natural materials such as wood, bamboo, and rattan.
• She recently displayed her work at Balad Al-Fann in Jeddah's historic district.
'It strangely attracted me. I felt like I found my passion here because it really appealed to me,' she said.
Telity says the method involves tightly rolling paper into sticks using a special needle. It is then woven into shape.
'It begins with choosing the type of paper, its size, and the way it is cut,' she said. 'After trying this art, you'll be amazed at the strength of these products and how they can be washed with soap and water without being affected.'
She describes the art as eco-conscious because of the recycling involved in the process.
To hone her craft, Telity enrolled in intensive online courses specializing in the technique.
'I found what I was looking for,' she said. 'The study was online, intensive, daily, and very precise in how to teach and train step by step.'
Now among the first Saudi artists to specialize in this form of bamboo art, she credits the Kingdom's growing cultural landscape for supporting artists exploring niche and rare forms of expression.
'This type of art is considered one of the rarest arts in the world,' she added. 'It requires precise skills and a deep understanding of transforming paper into a wood-like material.'
Telity recently displayed her work at Balad Al-Fann in Jeddah's historic district. She was struck by how strongly the art resonated with visitors. 'I noticed people's amazement and admiration for this art and how they were attracted by the type of art, method of weaving and the strength and ability to withstand external factors,' she said.
She now plans to hold workshops to pass on her skills, with the goal of eventually becoming a certified trainer.
With growing interest from aspiring crafters and a renewed push for cultural innovation across Saudi Arabia, Telity believes the future of this art form is bright.