A master craftsman blends tradition, technology

MUSCAT, APRIL 15
Jamal bin Mohammed al Amri stands out as an inspiring figure in handicrafts. For over twenty years, he has transformed his passion for wood carving into a profession that blends skills and creativity.
Al Amri is a master craftsman of marquetry, a delicate art form that involves inlaying of Islamic and geometric patterns in natural wood. He claims that his workshop is one of the oldest specialising in this field, where he is keen to preserve the spirit of the traditional craft while incorporating modern techniques.
As a young man, Al Amri was captivated by the transformation of wood into works of art, before this hobby evolved into a profession supported by family and friends. He honed his skills at a vocational training institute, along with continuous learning, research, and development via digital platforms and collaboration with specialists. He utilises both local and international woods, focusing on precision and high quality.
Several challenges faced Al Amri at the beginning of his journey, most notably a lack of experience and a fear of risk, in addition to the absence of specialised support and adequate training. Proving the competitiveness of local handmade products was also a major challenge, one he overcame through perseverance and hard work. Some challenges remain, such as the difficulty in sourcing rare woods, the high cost of modern tools, especially laser technology, and marketing challenges in the face of competition from low-cost commercial products.
But technology has also come to his help. Al Amri relies primarily on social media platforms to market his products. He emphasises that digital platforms have contributed to expanding the reach of Omani craftsmanship to international markets. Al Amri believes that the future of Omani crafts is promising, given the availability of modern tools and technologies that enhance production quality.
His project has indirectly supported those in related professions through training and collaboration, and he aspires to become a leading entrepreneur specialising in woodworking.
Al Amri advises young Omanis to be patient, master their craft and prioritise quality over profit, while also utilising modern technologies and digital marketing. He also called on the community to support local products, stressing that every handcrafted piece carries a cultural identity and national heritage that must be preserved.