09-07-2025
Saudi Artist Sarah Al-Johani Rebuilds Heritage Through Feminine Lens at Masaha
Sarah Al-Johani, a contemporary artist from Yanbu Al-Nakhl, showcases her evocative work at the ninth cycle of Masaha Residency. Her project, titled When Clay is Excited, draws inspiration from her expertise in restoring traditional mud houses. 'The reason I chose this name is because of my background in building and restoring traditional houses with mud,' Al-Johani explained.
She highlights her restoration projects in Al-Ula's old city and a Riyadh palace, connecting her art to Saudi Arabia's architectural heritage. Her work merges physical structures with emotional narratives, creating a unique artistic dialogue. Saudi artist Sarah Al-Johani at Masaha Residency Restoration as a Metaphor
Al-Johani's art reflects diverse restoration philosophies, which she parallels with family dynamics. 'One orientation says we completely demolish and rebuild the mud house for strength,' she noted, describing a school of thought prioritizing durability.
Conversely, another approach focuses on preservation, maintaining traces of the original structure, she elaborated, 'We preserve what is there, supporting remaining walls against erosion and rain.' A third perspective blends old and new, highlighting contrasts. Al-Johani sees these methods mirroring family relationships, where one adapts, preserves, or sometimes abandons ties for growth.
Crafting Feminine Leadership
Her studio, adorned with mud and golden frames from Bin Qasim, embodies her innovative vision. 'I took old, fractured frames and rewrote their story on my new roof,' she said, symbolizing renewal. Al-Johani's work challenges the proverb 'the father is the roof of the house.' She explained, 'The roof distributes loads on walls; a fallen wall increases pressure on others.' This metaphor underscores parental roles in balancing family strengths. By building her roof with feminine aesthetics, she advocates for women to embrace leadership uniquely, stating, 'I am telling a woman to complete the family's missing part, but don't turn into a man.'
Al-Johani's installation at Masaha Residency redefines traditional concepts through a feminine lens, blending heritage with modernity. Her thoughtful integration of architecture and family dynamics resonates deeply with Saudi audiences. 'I chose to build my roof in a very feminine way that looks like Sarah Al-Johani,' she asserted, emphasizing individuality. Her work invites viewers to reflect on preservation, change, and leadership, cementing her role as a trailblazer in Saudi contemporary art.
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