Latifa Al Sowayel grew up in an ambiance of unbounded creativity, with both a mother and grandmother who were artistic in different fields. As such, it is no wonder that she claims that she began painting at birth.
Her work is distinctive, as her sources of inspiration are infinite. With a rich cultural background, her mother being Venezuelan and her father Saudi, she fuses the feel of Latin America with the best of Arabia. Her abstract paintings from her latest collection, La Vie en Or, draw inspiration from her immediate surroundings: “The desert in Al Khobar is gold, hence the use of gold leaves in my work.”
Al Sowayel’s paintings also include a “variety of accessories like handbags, silk, earrings, belts and laces.” Her work mixes vintage accessories with modern jewels, as well as using rare Bedouin jewellery, to which she states, “reflects the culture and heritage of the Arab people. Each piece has a story and a meaning.”
Al Sowayel only paints when she is feeling uplifted, as she believes her emotions are conveyed in her work. “Negative feelings will show in my paintings and that is not a message I want to give out. I want people to see hope and harmony. I want my paintings to make them feel good.”
Her paintings have drawn several interested buyers, most of whom, Al Sowayel says, would like to remain anonymous. But she did mention, “Frank Williams, the founder of WilliamsF1 Formula One racing team has one of my paintings, and has also written me a very nice letter.” But truth be told, the list includes French president Nicolas Sarkozy and his wife Carla Bruni, King Abdallah and Gianfranco Ferre, to name a few.
Al Sowayel’s paintings, which carry a “message usually of peace and hope,” are exhibited at Ajami, a Lebanese restaurant, as well as in her atelier, both in Paris. Previously, they were displayed in Venice, as well as in the Majestic Hotel in Cannes.
Who Latifa bint Ibrahim Al Sowayel
Located between France and KSA
Style abstract
Why because of her ability to paint only her positive feelings, to transmit happiness and beauty to all those admiring her work.
HYPERLINK www.latifalavieenor.com www.latifalavieenor.com
