Mohammad Alfaraj

Artist Mohammad Alfaraj’s interest in multiple artistic and cultural practices is fueled by the Saudi Arabian oasis in which he was born. Through filmmaking, video, photography, installation, and writing, he presents a world charged with stories and tensions between the roots of belonging and tradition, modernity and the pace of progress. His work Guardians of the oasis is made from organic and found materials from Al-Ahsa, in an attempt to create and recall the spirit of the people and creatures who passed through the oasis to guard it, protect its visitors, and bear witness. It is an image that attempts to capture the tension between the roots of culture, and the wings of change. 

Alfaraj’s practice draws inspiration from people, land, and imagination, exploring the relationship between form and concept through edited photographs. His work explores the decomposition and decay that affects the relationships between these elements, with the belief that salvation is always in our hands.

Fashioned onto the wall using wheatpaste, a simple adhesive made of starch and water, this artwork was originally intended to be installed outside. Its imperfections speak to the impact of and tension between environmental and man-made issues as a result of the rapid development on the Saudi oasis.