My generation has witnessed a unique transition—the pre- and post-oil discoveries in the UAE—shaping our understanding of identity, progress, and preservation. As a result, my work is deeply influenced by cultural heritage, storytelling, and the evolution of identity within my community. As an Emirati artist, I explore the intersection of tradition and modernity, capturing the tension between generations and the shifting roles of men and women in a rapidly transforming society like the United Arab Emirates. Through figurative realism, I aim to preserve the customs, labor, and craftsmanship that form the backbone of our history, while juxtaposing them with contemporary elements to reflect the fluidity of change.

The foundation of my work lies in the duality of old and new—how the past shapes the present and how my generation negotiates its place between inherited traditions and contemporary realities. I am particularly drawn to the untold stories of artisans, weavers, and tradespeople whose hands carry the weight of history. These figures embody resilience, skill, and dedication, and through my paintings, I seek to honor their contributions while making them visible in an art world that often overlooks such narratives.

My paintings are executed in oil on canvas or canvas panels, often employing a monochromatic palette to highlight the depth of texture, contrast, and expression. Against these figures in greyscale or muted colors, I use rich gold or textured modern backdrops, creating a striking visual dialogue between tradition and contemporary aesthetics. This contrast serves as a metaphor for the generational shifts I examine—where history is not erased but recontextualized.

My process begins with research and documentation, immersing myself in the lives of my subjects. I take photographs, conduct interviews, and observe their environments to ensure authenticity. I use oil paint for its richness and depth, meticulously layering to capture the intricate details of fabric, skin, and emotion. The gold leaf or modern abstract backgrounds provide a sense of reverence, transforming everyday laborers into icons of cultural history.

One of my most significant pieces portrays an elderly Emirati woman weaving a basket, her hands deeply lined with experience. Dressed in traditional attire, adorned with jewelry that speaks to her heritage, she sits against a glowing gold backdrop. The monochrome rendering of her form emphasizes her presence, while the gold elevates her status—she is not just a laborer, but a guardian of tradition. Another work features a fisherman meticulously repairing his net, the strands of woven fibers mirroring the threads of history he carries forward.

Through my work, I aim to bridge the gap between generations, inviting viewers to reflect on the hands that built our past and the evolving identities that shape our future. My paintings are not just portraits; they are visual testaments to perseverance, transformation, and the beauty of the Emirati heritage in flux.