Born in the Bekaa Valley of Lebanon, Salwa Zeidan‘s journey through the world has been as dynamic and evolving as her art. From her early days, she traveled extensively, absorbing diverse cultures and experiences that would later infuse her work with a rich tapestry of influences. Eventually, she found her home in Abu Dhabi, where she established a contemporary art gallery. This gallery is not just a space for showcasing art; it is a beacon for artists in the Middle East, providing a platform for both established and emerging talents.
Zeidan’s art is a testament to her commitment to peace and freedom of expression. Her mediums are as varied as her inspirations, spanning mixed media paintings, conceptual art, sculpting, and recycled art. Through these diverse forms, she communicates her ongoing search for higher truth, inner peace, light, and knowledge. Over her 25-year career, she has dedicated numerous works to themes of peace, love, and environmental awareness.
A key feature of Zeidan’s work is her incorporation of abstract minimalist art. Her pieces often feature calligraphic elements, with one of her most notable motifs being the spiral. This shape, inspired by her ink drawings from 1999, symbolizes the constant evolution of humanity. Whether in her paintings or sculptures, the spiral represents the internal pendulum of everlasting evolution, a theme that resonates deeply within her art.
Zeidan’s paintings and sculptures are not confined to one geographic region; they can be found in galleries and private collections across the globe, from the USA to Switzerland, Italy, France, London, Turkey, and various countries in the Middle East. This widespread presence underscores the universal appeal and relevance of her work.
One of the hallmarks of Zeidan’s approach to art is her belief that art should not be burdened with preconceived notions or approved visions. Instead, she advocates for a spontaneous creation process, allowing the moment of creativity to govern the outcome. This philosophy was particularly evident in a significant phase of her sculptural work. Without any prior conceptions, she embarked on creating pieces that ultimately took the form of the Arabic letters “He,” symbolizing the Almighty Creator. These sculptures, characterized by continuous circular shapes without angles or sharp edges, reflect her gentle yet persevering nature. The method of relying on one continuous movement until the completion of the work not only highlights her artistic discipline but also allows the viewer to engage with the piece on multiple sensory levels.
Zeidan’s gallery in Abu Dhabi serves as a cultural hub, curating exhibitions that highlight the works of both renowned and promising artists in the region. Her role as a curator is as crucial as her work as an artist, fostering a community where creativity can thrive and new voices can be heard. Through her gallery, she nurtures a dialogue between artists and the public, emphasizing the importance of art in promoting social change and understanding.
In essence, Salwa Zeidan’s art is a journey of exploration and expression. Her works are imbued with a deep sense of purpose, reflecting her commitment to peace, love, and environmental stewardship. The spiral, a recurring motif in her work, serves as a powerful symbol of humanity’s constant evolution and the eternal quest for higher truth. Through her diverse mediums and spontaneous creative process, she invites viewers to embark on their own journeys of discovery and transformation.
In a world often marked by conflict and division, Zeidan’s art stands as a beacon of hope and unity. Her pieces not only captivate the senses but also inspire introspection and dialogue. Whether through the fluid lines of her calligraphic sculptures or the intricate textures of her mixed media paintings, Salwa Zeidan continues to push the boundaries of artistic expression, leaving an indelible mark on the global art landscape. Her legacy is one of profound impact, reminding us all of the power of art to transcend borders and bring about meaningful change.
