Saudi Artist Malak Al-Johani Revives Grandmother’s Memories Through Interactive Art
In the heart of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the Masaha Residency continues to foster artistic innovation and cultural expression. During this year’s ninth cycle, graphic designer and visual artist Malak Al-Johani brings a poignant project to life, inspired by the cherished memories of her grandmother, Fatima bin Salam Al-Marwani.
Malak Al-Johani’s project at the Masaha Residency is a deeply personal exploration of her grandmother’s memories. By using stones collected from significant locations in her grandmother’s life, Malak creates an interactive art experience that transports viewers through time and space.
“I felt that I was evoking memories older than me, memories that I did not live myself, memories I inherited from my grandmother,” Malak shared during her interview. These stones serve as tangible evidence of her grandmother’s past, connecting the present with a rich historical tapestry.
Essence of the Project
Furthermore, the project is not just about preserving geographical coordinates but also about capturing the emotional essence of these memories. Malak’s use of stone shapes, textures, and colors, along with mirrors and lights, creates a reflective space that mirrors the fleeting nature of memories.
“The place is designed with mirrors and lights to reflect memories, how memories are not clear, memories sit faintly and go and return, evoke us at different times, and travel through time approximately,” Malak explained. This intricate design invites viewers to interact with the stones and immerse themselves in the memories embedded within them.
The Masaha Residency, known for its focus on cultivating the art sector through discourse and experimentation, provides a perfect platform for Malak’s project. This residency aims to support emerging artists in their creative endeavors by fostering meaningful exchanges between local communities and the global cultural landscape.
Malak’s work exemplifies the residency’s mission by blending personal heritage with contemporary artistic practices. Her project not only honors her grandmother’s legacy but also offers a unique perspective on how to preserve and celebrate cultural traditions through art.
The Impact of Interactive Art
Interactive art has the power to engage audiences on a deeper level, creating a personal connection between the viewer and the artwork. Malak’s project at the Masaha Residency does just that, inviting viewers to touch the stones and interact with the memories they hold.
“This project is an interactive art as soon as you touch the stones and interact inside these memories that are inside them,” Malak described. This hands-on approach allows viewers to experience the memories firsthand, making the past feel present and alive.
A Legacy of Love and Memory
At its core, Malak’s project is a tribute to her grandmother’s life and the memories they shared. Through her art, Malak keeps her grandmother’s spirit alive, allowing others to connect with her story and the emotions it evokes.
“Her structure is stone-shaped, the texture of the stone, the color of the stone, and the emotions I felt at that moment, such as her warm hand on my back, or the specific smells of the vicks she was using,” Malak recalled. These intimate details add layers of depth to the project, making it a heartfelt homage to her grandmother’s enduring influence.
In conclusion, Malak Al-Johani’s project at the Masaha Residency is a touching exploration of memory, heritage, and interactive art. Through her innovative use of stones and reflective design, she invites viewers to embark on a journey through time, connecting with the past in a deeply personal way.
