Faiz relates his art to feelings evoked by places

There are many artists in Maldives. They hold exhibitions too. However, Abdullah Faiz's exhibition, titled ‘ihusaas’, which can either mean feelings or emotions, is going to be very different. The exhibition is set to open on August 5, and the way Faiz presents his artwork is very unusual this time.

Faiz, who has held four exhibitions so far, this time connected his art with feelings. That too, in a completely different style.

As the title of the exhibition means feeling, I wondered how the theme fit to his art this year. So, I asked Faiz for clarification.

Faiz stated that the exhibition will primarily showcase art related to various locations within the Maldives, including ancient historical sites. His approach to linking his art with the exhibition's theme is notably captivating. He conveyed that his paintings depict the emotional responses individuals experience upon visiting or viewing these places in photographs. Consequently, it is anticipated that Faiz's exhibition this year will garner significant public acclaim.

"When we travel or see certain places from the past in photographs, we have feelings about the times when people lived there and what they did. That's how I came to name it," Faiz said.

Faiz has demonstrated a passion for drawing since childhood. However, it was only recently that he started holding exhibitions to showcase his paintings to the public. As such, Faiz’s first exhibition was held in July, 2023.

That exhibition, which opened under the name of Journey, showcased Faiz's skills and uniqueness. It literally showcased his passion and love for archeology and history. So, this time as well, his art is awaited eagerly.

The paintings included in this year’s exhibition will be on display to the public, and will be available for purchase.

The exhibition is scheduled to open at 2030 hrs on the 5th of next month with a special ceremony. Journalists and painters will be invited to the ceremony. Although the exhibition will officially be opened on the night of the 5th, it will open for the public viewing the next day. The exhibition will be open from 1600 hrs to 2200hrs and will continue until the 16th of August.

The exhibition will be open daily from 1430 hrs to 2230 hrs. And on Fridays, from 1600 hrs to 2230 hrs.

This represents one of the most compelling motivations to visit the art gallery: to fully appreciate the aesthetic and emotional depth of Faiz's paintings.