Bio

Alif, born in 1986 in Tarut Island, Saudi Arabia, is a contemporary calligrapher and sculptor currently based in his hometown. Specializing in wood sculptures and Arabic graffiti, Alif is best known for his unique calligraphy style that carries his work on a cloud of romantic elegance. His innovative fusion of modern calligraphy with sculptural techniques has distinguished him in the contemporary art scene.

Alif's work is characterized by an exploration of the layers of love that connect all beings in perfect harmony. This profound subject matter is evident in his notable series, "Soul Nutrients," which spanned from 2020 to 2022. This series was a pivotal point in his career, showcasing his limitless technical possibilities and earning him significant recognition within the institutional art world. The success of "Soul Nutrients" led to numerous commissions and exhibitions, further establishing his presence in the contemporary art scene.

Alif has exhibited his work at notable venues such as Ithra in Dhahran and the Aramco Art Hall in Khobar, Saudi Arabia. His pieces are included in prestigious collections such as Banyan Tree in AlUla and the private collection of Hamza Serafi, co-founder of Athr Gallery. In addition to winning a prize at the Art Marathon by the General Entertainment Authority in Dammam, Alif has also contributed to the art community by training over 100 artists in knife carving skills.

Resume

Selected exhibitions:

2025 Behind the streets (group exhibition), Tajreed gallery, Riyadh, Saudi [upcoming]
2024 Art Riyadh (group exhibition), Nayla gallery, Riyadh, Saudi
2022 Eastern calligraphers (group exhibition), Desert Designs gallery, Al-Khobar, Saudi
2022 4th Eastern Calligraphy (group exhibition), Dammam cultural center, Dammam, Saudi
2021 Tanween (featured artist), Ithra, Dhahran, Saudi
2019 East Art (group exhibition), Aramco cultural center, Dhahran, Saudi
2015 Dokhala (art fair), cultural seafront, Sanabes, Saudi
2014 Content oasis (graffiti art fair), beach festival, Qatif, Saudi

Awards & grants:

2024 Tanween (grant), Ithra – maker society, Dhahran, Saudi
2020 Maan (grant), Athr gallery, Jeddah, Saudi
2019 Art marathon (winner), General entertainment authority, Dammam, Saudi
2014 City graffiti (grant), Ministry of tourism, Tarut, Saudi

Selected collections:

Hob (carved spoons study), Hamza Serafi, Athr gallery - Jeddah, Saudi
Salam Alhob (outdoor wood sculptures), Banyan Tree - Al-Ula, Saudi
Alif features in various national private collections.