Arab artist: Abdul Qader al-Rais challenges still life painting

Emirati fine artist Abdul Qader al-Rais challenges still life painting by devising coloring techniques and styles.

Al-Rais was born in Dubai in 1951. He earned his Bachelor degree from the UAE University in 1982. His artistic talents emerged shortly and then slowly and gradually evolved throughout the 1980s and 1990s.

Al-Rais soon became the most eminent artist and his name was the most present in art exhibitions in the UAE and the Gulf. Although he entered the art world as an amateur, he finally took the decision to become a professional artist and consequently the first professional artist in the history of fine art in the UAE. Al-Rais also contributed to the foundation of the Emirates Fine Arts Society.

Driven by religious beliefs, al-Rais only draws still life paintings. This limitation has posed many challenges for him as he could display his inherent skills only in a very narrow spectrum. However, he turned the tide, and devised coloring techniques and styles which gave him a remarkable position which no one dares to emulate.

“Every artist should have his unique traits and style, so that the beholder could recognize the artwork without having to see his or her initials,” said al-Rais.

In the 1970s, some of the themes of al- Rais’ paintings included old buildings, arches, windows, palm trees and doors with faded paint. His paintings showed unequaled skills of oil and water color paintings, and thus, enriching the world of art in the Gulf region with a unique heritage.

“I don’t merely draw doors and old houses, but rather embrace the abstract style as a kind of challenge,” said al-Rais.

“Once a man is determined and has the passion for any goal, he will definitely attain it,” he added.

To read more and view Abdul Qader al-Rais's art please follow the link:
http://enawafeth.alarabiya.net/content/challenging-still-life-images