Painting the walls of OId Damascus

Gallery Ayyam recently organized an event called “The Best Artistic Painting Competition,” in collaboration with the Junior Chamber of Commerce (JCI). It aims at at bringing about greater art awareness in Syrian society. A group of the gallery’s finest professional artists supervised the works of 25 young painters who roamed the old streets and alleys of Damascus, carrying their painting utilities and drawing away, initially surprising, then enchanting, the people of Damascus. Originally 160 people had applied for the event, which, in addition to exposure, promised the first prize winner a full-scholarship to study at the al-Wadi University, one of the private universities that have opened in Syria. The event, which took place between August 8-10, 2008, was beneficial for competitors, artists, and ordinary Damascenes, whose art appreciation was enhanced. Once the competition was finished, the works were displayed at Gallery Ayyam. Later, they were exhibited in Aleppo and Homs. This competition is the second of its kind for Gallery Ayyam, having held a similar competition for young artists back in 2007. 

Syrian artist Safwan Dahoul, who was a member of the 5-man committee supervising the works of the 25 young artists, noted, “the modernity of the idea, the fact that these young people were coming from different towns in Syria, and the choice to exhibit in Old Damascus, were all in fact a new experience for everybody. Painting in the alleys of the old city, and direct interaction with the people produced great effects, which were felt by all of us.” The renowned artist Mohannad Orabi added, “It was an opportunity for those aged 14-18, who have just shifted from childhood to adolescence, where their talent needs support for experienced artists. We can admit, as professional artists, that the benefit was mutual between us.” Abdul Karim Majdal al-Beik, another artist, said, “The purpose of the workshop was to discover new talent and allow young people to enter the art world. It also emphasized on the private sector to support young talent, just like Gallery Ayyam is doing.”