Ayman Yossri Daydban, Untitled, 2024, Silicon on canvas, Various sizes

Courtesy: ATHR Gallery & The Artist

Since its inception in Jeddah in 2009, Athr Gallery has played a pivotal role in building the Contemporary art scene in Saudi; valuing experimentation and the exploration of new ideas, disseminating the artists’ role in the creative process and the impact they can have on societies. As a relentless supporter of young as well as established artists from Saudi Arabia and the Arab region, Athr has been providing a number of opportunities for furthering knowledge and experience within its multidisciplinary space in Jeddah and beyond, such as international residencies, special commissions, international group exhibitions, symposia, funding and more. Founded by Hamza Serafi and Mohammed Hafiz, whose passion and network allow Athr to have a deeply engaged discourse in the local art scene, they have taken on the initiative of filling the absence of public art institutions, museums and art schools to establish a sustainable art scene open to the world all while having an international presence.

ATHR is delighted to present a solo presentation at Art Dubai 2024, featuring Ayman Yossri Daydban, an esteemed Saudi-Palestinian artist, employs a multidisciplinary approach to shed light on the multifaceted aspects of identity, belonging, and the intricate interplay between East and West influences. Drawing inspiration from his own name, which translates to ‘watchman’ or ‘guard,’ Daydban assumes the role of an astute observer, meticulously analyzing the multifarious components of cultural influences and their impact on individual and collective existence. At the heart of the exhibition, Daydban’s Flag Series on stainless steel beckons viewers to reflect upon the significance and symbolism of national flags. By appropriating this potent visual language onto stainless steel surfaces, the artist challenges the viewer’s perception of national identity, provoking contemplation on the fluidity of borders and the complexities of allegiance in today’s globalized world. Complementing the Flag Series, Daydban’s exploration of everyday consumer objects takes an unexpected twist. In his folded objects, meticulously crafted from various materials, the artist elevates the mundane and imbues them with a sense of intrigue by folding and recontextualizing these objects. Another focal point of the exhibition is the Subtitles Series, where Daydban creatively engages with the function and interpretation of subtitles. By placing himself within movie stills and overlaying them with subtitles, he challenges the traditional role of subtitles as mere translation tools. Instead, he investigates their potential to create new meanings when removed from their original context, prompting us to reconsider the ways in which we perceive and interpret language. The Maharem and Posters Series derived from the Egyptian era of films further enriches the exhibition, delving into the concept of sensory experiences. Through these works, Daydban invites audiences to immerse themselves in the captivating world of Egyptian cinema, exploring the profound emotional impact that audiovisual stimuli can have on shaping our understanding of culture, heritage, and memory. Ayman Yossri Daydban’s practice, spanning painting, sculptures, and installations, serves as a conduit for the artist’s exploration of identity and alienation. Through his nuanced and thought-provoking artistic language, Daydban challenges us to critically examine the constructs that shape our understanding of self and society. In this solo presentation, ATHR invites you to engage with Ayman Yossri Daydban’s evocative artworks, as they beckon us to question, reflect, and reimagine the intricate tapestry of our collective narratives.