Finding Depth in the Ordinary

Amidst the incessant stream of artworks flooding social media, a different voice emerges — one that centres on recurring faces, wide-open eyes and colours that oscillate from sharp to serene. It is the voice of Asma al Saadi, a multimedia artist whose work refuses to be confined by fleeting trends or commercial imperatives. Her art is a deliberate pursuit of capturing the ephemerality of human experience and transforming it into profound visual narratives.

Al Saadi’s creative vision revolves around weaving fleeting moments into lasting symbols — women bearing nature within them, faces entwined in a tapestry of identities, masks whispering of concealed worlds and her signature recurring eye representing sight, insight and insatiable curiosity. Her approach is both personal and universal: a desire to explore what it means to perceive, to feel and to confront the complexities of the human psyche. Her art transcends traditional boundaries, reaching beyond paper and screen into tangible items such as cups, books and fabrics. This integration of art into everyday objects underscores her conviction that creativity should be embedded in life's minutiae, not reserved as a luxury or elite pursuit. “I seek, through my art, to capture the details of ordinary life, recurring or unique feelings and to tell my stories and stories that touch me”, she explains. “I care about highlighting everything that affects the human conscience and daily existence, though I am especially drawn to psychological themes and women’s issues. My work aims to reflect the layered realities of the human mind and our continuous efforts to live amidst challenges”.

Al Saadi’s journey into art was not immediate. Born into a world where drawing was not a natural-born skill, she discovered her artistic voice late in life. “I wasn’t born with drawing skills”, she admits. “I didn’t practice childhood. Yet, from a young age, I had a broad imagination. I kept trying to express ideas through different mediums until I found drawing, which resonated most deeply with me”. Her initial forays into creation laid the groundwork for a profound exploration of personal and social narratives.

One of her most celebrated works, “Whatever I Like”, is a potent reflection on women’s agency and freedom. She paints three linked faces woven with braids — an emblem of female unity and resilience — each representing diverse backgrounds yet united through shared experience. “Braids are a symbol of unity”, she notes. “All women, regardless of social or cultural differences, have tried their hand at braiding hair, as if it signifies our collective strength”. This piece, displayed during a local celebration of Omani Women’s Day, captures her commitment to empowering women through art.

Her engagement with cultural themes is equally deliberate. “I love the painting ‘They Are Not Numbers’”, she says, “which depicts Palestinian faces circulating in a circle, transforming into birds carrying watermelons — emblems of resistance and hope”. She emphasises that Palestinians are not mere statistics but living stories, dreams and aspirations. Her portrayal underscores her belief in the enduring spirit of occupied peoples and her deep connection to her Arab heritage.

Al Saadi’s Omani roots are woven into her work, serving as a wellspring of inspiration and identity. Her paintings are filled with nostalgic details — the bright toy “Lulu”, the hearty Ramadhan soups her grandmother prepared, the bustling market of Oman on a Ramadhan night and the calls to prayer that once echoed in her childhood. These reflections serve as a portal to her memory, capturing the essence of tradition and simplicity with heartfelt sincerity.

Her piece “I Will Grow” exemplifies her reverence for Arab heritage. It depicts a woman in traditional attire, wearing a “Mukhwar”, with flowing hair symbolising continuity and resilience. Interwoven with imagery of bottles and plants, the painting’s message is one of perseverance, asserting that no matter the difficulties faced, growth persists.

For Al Saadi, tranquillity is essential — an emotional state that fosters clarity in translating her inner visions into art. “I believe everyone has multiple facets”, she states. “We shift between different masks depending on the situation. Colours — blue, green, yellow — are vital to expressing mood and emotion. My work reflects my psychological state; viewers can often understand my feelings through my use of colour and line”.

While some may view contemporary digital tools as threats, Al Saadi perceives AI-generated art as an opportunity rather than competition. “Even if AI produces technically flawless works, Al Saadi’s perspective is rooted in the belief that true artistry transcends mere technique. “Feelings and thoughts are what truly define an artwork”, she asserts. “AI might mimic style, but it cannot replicate the human consciousness and emotional depth that I pour into my creations. I see digital advancements as tools that can complement my work, not replace the unique perspective I bring”.

Her advice to aspiring artists and designers echoes a timeless truth: practice for the sake of expression. “Don’t focus solely on the outcome”, she counsels. “Enjoy the process of creation. Every stroke, colour choice and concept is part of your journey. Through patience and perseverance, your authentic voice will emerge”.