From the moment you look at his paintings, you’re drawn in. You see the thick lines of carved doors, the curved patterns on windows, the swirling calligraphy, and even the tiny details like jewellery, vessels, or stars — all recreated with a modern twist. It’s as if Oman’s old walls and stories are whispering to you through his brushstrokes. His work celebrates the beauty of architecture, yes, but also the life that revolved around these structures—religious gatherings, scholarly pursuits, everyday life, all woven into his art.
Juma Al-Harthy’s paintings make you step into a world where history, culture, and artistry come together in vibrant displays of colour and detail. His work feels like a window into Oman’s soul—rich with stories of ancient buildings, intricate designs, and the crafts that have been passed down through generations. His art isn’t just about pretty pictures; it’s about capturing the spirit of Oman’s architecture, its symbols, and its stories, all in a way that feels fresh and exciting. What makes Juma different from other artists? It’s his deep connection with Oman’s history, his keen eye for detail, and his ability to blend traditional Islamic art with contemporary styles — all while making it accessible for everyone.
One of his most famous pieces, Jibreen Icon, takes us on a visual walk through Jibreen Castle. It’s a stunning pair of paintings inspired by one of Oman’s most iconic castles. These images don’t just show the stone walls; they tell stories about the people who lived there, the traditions they kept, and the secrets hidden in the carvings and inscriptions. The paintings highlight everything from the beautifully painted decorations to the engraved writings on the doors, making you feel like you’re walking through the castle yourself.
Juma uses a mix of abstract and impressionist styles, which gives his work a lively, almost dream-like feel. He talks about how he’s capturing not just the physical aspects of the castle, but also its political, cultural, and social significance. The middle of the painting features a ship’s rudder — a symbol of leadership and guidance, representing Imam Balarab bin Sultan Al Yaarubi, who built the castle in 1670. The castle was more than just a fort; it was a hub of learning and faith, a place where scholars gathered, and his attention to the inscriptions he found there reveals his fascination with the stories carved into the walls.
Juma’s love for Oman isn’t just about the history, it’s about the everyday beauty of the neighbourhoods, the old houses, and the decorative doors. He’s drawn to the tiny details—the patterns on a door, an inscription, the way sunlight hits an old wall. “These little things have always been fascinating,” he says. “They’re like secret messages, waiting to be uncovered.” His artworks try to capture this feeling—bringing back the shine of those old doors or making us see the beauty in their simple, yet intricate designs.
Patterns are a big part of his art—geometric designs, inspired by traditional Omani motifs, are repeated over and over, creating balance and rhythm. You’ll also notice floral motifs, leaves, and flowers, which connect the art to nature. Arabic calligraphy isn’t just writing; it’s art in itself. It’s used to decorate buildings and surfaces, turning words into visual artworks and making every corner feel like a piece of history.
Juma points out that Oman’s artistic styles weren’t developed in isolation. They absorbed influences from East Africa and other nearby regions through trade and cultural exchanges. That’s why his work often reflects a mix of styles and influences—an echo of Oman’s place as a crossroads of different cultures.
For Juma, research and understanding are crucial. He dives deep into the history of Islamic art, Oman’s cultural heritage, and world art traditions. His pieces aren’t just pretty—they’re meaningful, filled with stories and history that engage everyone who looks at them. People from all over the world find his work captivating because it combines beauty with a sense of storytelling and history.
Apart from creating stunning works, Juma has been busy showing his art at events across Oman and internationally. His famous Olive Branch project, created for a luxury hotel in Jabal Akhdar, symbolises Palestinian resilience. It’s a reminder of how steadfast and brave the Palestinian people have been, even in the toughest times. Currently, Gaza endures a brutal siege, and Juma feels a connection to this ongoing struggle, using his art to highlight hope and resistance.
His artistic journey has taken him beyond Oman’s borders. He’s showcased his work at exhibitions, participated in cultural forums, and had some of his pieces purchased by collectors as far away as France. For example, last year, three of his artworks found a home in a private residence there, thanks to a collaboration with a Russian artist living in Oman.
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