[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.16″ animation_style=”slide” animation_direction=”top” animation_intensity_slide=”2%” animation_starting_opacity=”100%” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=”An Interview with Middle Eastern-Based Artist Future Bedouin” button_two_text=”Join Our Newsletter” button_two_url=”#sign” content_max_width=”700px” _builder_version=”4.21.0″ title_font=”Merriweather||||||||” title_font_size=”39px” title_line_height=”1.2em” content_font=”Merriweather||||||||” content_font_size=”18px” content_line_height=”1.6em” background_color=”rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)” use_background_color_gradient=”on” background_color_gradient_direction=”90deg” background_color_gradient_stops=”#1f4c1f 0%|rgba(0,0,0,0) 100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”on” background_color_gradient_start=”rgba(0,0,0,0.75)” background_color_gradient_end=”rgba(0,0,0,0)” background_image=”https://arabius.com/sandbox/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/6-2-1.jpg” custom_button_one=”on” button_one_text_size=”18px” button_one_bg_color=”#02d002″ button_one_border_width=”8px” button_one_border_color=”#02d002″ button_one_border_radius=”0px” button_one_letter_spacing=”1px” button_one_font=”Lato|700|||||||” button_one_use_icon=”off” custom_button_two=”on” button_two_text_size=”16px” button_two_text_color=”#353740″ button_two_bg_color=”#ffffff” button_two_border_width=”4px” button_two_border_color=”#ffffff” button_two_border_radius=”14px” button_two_letter_spacing=”1px” button_two_font=”Merriweather|700|||||||” button_two_use_icon=”off” custom_margin=”||-6px||false|false” custom_padding=”12%||12%|” button_one_letter_spacing_hover=”1px” button_two_letter_spacing_hover=”1px” global_colors_info=”{}” button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=”off” button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=”off” button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=”off” button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=”off” button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=”off” button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=”off” button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=”off” button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=”off” button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=”off” button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=”off” button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=”on” button_one_letter_spacing__hover=”1px” button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=”on” button_two_letter_spacing__hover=”1px” button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=”off” button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=”off”]

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Future Bedouin is an endeavor started by Alex Olszewska. Alex’s stunning reimaginings of famous Saudi landmarks are all over social media. We discussed her inspiration, process, and thoughts on the growing creative scene in Saudi Arabia and beyond. Based in Riyadh and Dubai, Alex creates works of art by combining ancient imagery with modern technology to create something new. This interview was conducted via correspondence. Answers have been edited for clarity and length.

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Question: We love your work! What inspires you?

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My inspiration stems from the rich tapestry of culture and heritage that surrounds me.

I draw inspiration from the vast desert landscapes, the mystical oasis, and the intricate patterns in traditional Bedouin textiles and architecture. These elements are the foundation of my artistic vision, a bridge between the old and the new. 

Ultimately, my artistic inspiration lies in the seamless fusion of the old and the new, the ancient and the futuristic. By embracing the richness of our heritage and infusing it with the possibilities of tomorrow, I strive to create a visual experience that sparks the imagination, ignites curiosity, and celebrates the beauty of our shared human story.

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Question:How did you develop the concept for Future Bedouin?

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The process of creating artworks that blend the old, cultural, and heritage elements with a futuristic feel is an exhilarating journey of exploration and creativity. It involves thorough research, ideation, digital and physical creation, installation, and engagement. It is a journey of passion, creativity, and cultural celebration, where the past and the future intertwine to create immersive artistic experiences.

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Question: There’s a lot of talk about AI and art. Do you think AI will replace human artists?

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While I appreciate the advancements in technology and the possibilities they bring, the idea of AI taking over the creative process is disheartening.

One of the defining aspects of art is its ability to convey human emotions and experiences. As a Middle Eastern artist, I am deeply rooted in my culture, heritage, and traditions. My artwork is a celebration and preservation of the rich artistic legacy that has been passed down through generations. The essence of my work lies in blending the old with the futuristic, infusing traditional motifs with innovative concepts. AI, however, might struggle to grasp the intricacies and complexities of this process and the human touch that makes art so deeply personal and relatable.

The rise of AI-generated art raises questions about the livelihood and sustainability of human artists. If AI becomes the dominant force in the art world, there is a fear that it could overshadow and devalue the contributions of human artists, making it more challenging to sustain a career in the field. I believe that there will always be a place for human artistry and the unique perspectives we bring. Our ability to capture the essence of our culture, heritage, and emotions through our art is irreplaceable. By embracing technology while staying true to our human essence, we can continue to create meaningful and impactful artworks that resonate with audiences and leave a lasting legacy.

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Question: What is the biggest misconception about the Saudi art scene?

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The prevailing stereotype portrays Saudi Arabia as a singular cultural identity. Saudi Arabia is a vibrant and diverse country with a rich tapestry of artistic traditions, cultural influences, and creative voices. The Saudi art scene is teeming with talented artists who are pushing boundaries, challenging norms, and creating networks that reflect the complexities and nuances of our society.

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The reality is that Saudi Arabia is embracing technology, innovation, and creative experimentation. The blending of traditional art forms with digital mediums is gaining momentum, and artists like myself are exploring new horizons and pushing the boundaries of artistic expression..

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Conclusion

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We’re so grateful for Alex’s time and thoughts. Her perspective is fascinating. At Arabius, we love helping people engage with Saudi culture in all its wonderful, multi-faceted ways. We particularly appreciate how Future Bedouin is able to take familiar images and charge them with new life. Want to hear more about arts and culture in Saudi Arabia? Sign up for the Arabius Insider to stay up-to-date.

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