

Imagine stepping into a sun-drenched studio filled with the rich aroma of freshly cut wood, where the gentle hum of a lathe machine resonates through the air. Here, amidst shavings and sawdust, you find Almoayad Al Rashdi, a master woodturner whose passion transforms local timber into stunning artistic pieces. From intricately designed vases to elegant candlesticks and unique plates, Almoayad skillfully brings the beauty of the Omani landscape into his art, captivating all who encounter it.
Almoayad's journey into woodturning is a tale woven with resilience and creativity. The challenges presented by the 2022 pandemic, particularly the closures threatening his livelihood, propelled him to innovate. “Finding a cage for my birds felt impossible, so I decided to depend on myself,” he recalls. With offcuts from furniture and unwavering determination, he embarked on a remarkable month-long challenge to construct his first birdcage. This endeavour sparked a newfound passion for carpentry, leading him to create not only garden accessories but also to breathe new life into neglected furniture.



A pivotal moment in Almoayad's artistic evolution came after natural disasters struck the Wilayat of Wadi Bani Khalid in North Al Sharqiyah. With fallen trees from swollen valleys at his disposal, he found new inspiration in recycling this wood, transforming it into beautiful artwork and ensuring that nature’s gifts were not wasted.
For Almoayad, art is both a fulfilling hobby and a burgeoning profession. While many novices find it daunting to turn their passion into a financially rewarding venture, he emphasises the importance of marketing and creativity. “Linking your product to a specific value that piques interest can set you apart,” he advises budding artisans.
History and culture are vital threads in Almoayad’s creations. His travels to Shiraz, Iran, enriched his understanding of Persian artistry, influencing many of his designs. The crowning jewel of his collection is the Haddash Vase. Crafted from the rare Otam trees of Oman, this piece embodies an age-old legacy; the tree, nearly a millennium old, once thrived beside the revered Hadash Mosque. “Creating this vase was my way of preserving the memory of this remarkable tree,” he explains, noting that it has found a home with an antique collector.



Nature is an endless wellspring of inspiration for Almoayad. He prides himself on melding luxury with the essence of the Omani environment; his vast, elegantly crafted vase echoes the intrinsic beauty of ancient Omani pottery. Such pieces not only pay homage to his heritage but also tell stories of the land itself.
Learning the intricacies of woodcraft was no easy feat for Almoayad. He dedicated himself to local and international courses, investing both time and resources to hone his skills. These efforts bore fruit, allowing him to showcase his work at various exhibitions with the support of the SMEs Development Authority. Recently, he proudly represented Oman at the Banan International Exhibition in Saudi Arabia, where he mingled with 500 craftsmen from 26 countries, and he dreams of expanding his global footprint in the art world.



For Almoayad, creating art is more than a profession; it’s a ritual that fuels his creativity. “I find peace in the early mornings and late nights, where the focus is sharper and the melodies of classical music ignite my passion,” he reflects.
As he looks towards the future, Almoayad envisions international collaborations, prestigious awards, and his own exhibition. He encourages the youth to embrace innovation in the arts and stresses the importance of preserving the rich heritage of handicrafts. “We must reignite artistic evenings and events that enrich our society’s understanding of art and craftsmanship,” he urges, a testament to his commitment not only to his craft but to the cultural legacy of his homeland.
In the hands of Almoayad Al Rashdi, wood is not merely material; it is a canvas for storytelling, a bridge between the past and the future. Each piece he creates is a reflection of his journey, an invitation for others to join in celebrating the beauty of art.
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