Page 118 - MOC PR REPORT - OCT 2025

10/13/25, 11:54 AM Nja Mahdaoui show opens season at Bassam Freiha Art Foundation

Untitled, Graphemes on Arches 2.
A large -scale and intricate masterpiece created in mixed media, Untitled 3, from the Azimuth series (2012), sees sweeping diagonals and
concentric forms intersect with a central circular motif to orchestrate movement across the vellum surface. Graphemes on Arches 2 (2011)
presents a masterfully complex and colourful circle tightly composed in ink; it is exemplary of the strong presence of balance and rhythm across
Mahdaoui’s work. The exhibition bridges both tradition and modernity and explores how Mahdaoui’s calligraphic abstraction has shaped global
perceptions of Arab art.

Bringing together concepts of identity and heritage, it celebrates his enduring legacy, while also reinforcing the Foundation’s role as a leading
platform for Arab artistic excellence and cross-cultural dialogue. “Internationally renowned as a “choreographer of letters, Mahdaoui is widely
recognised for his pioneering role in the development of calligraphic abstraction, freeing the letter from its linguistic constraints, to reveal its
endless creative potential,” said Dr. Michaela Watrelot. “As one of the leading modern Arab artists, it is an honour to bring his retrospective to
Saadiyat Island to celebrate his artistic legacy, and cement our commitment to giving local audiences access to private art collections, with this
collection from the Nja Mahdaoui Foundation. This is an unmissable exhibition for anyone interested in the MENA region’s culture and heritage.”

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