Damascus, April 2 (SANA) Visual artist Mazen Shaiban explored the history of the civilizations that have succeeded one another in Damascus during a lecture held at the Arab Cultural Center in al-Midan neighborhood as part of Tangible Heritage Week, presenting an artistic vision that documents the identity of the place through unconventional sculptures using local and natural materials.
Shaiban briefed the audience on the details of Damascus alleyways and old houses, explaining the evolution of architectural styles influenced by the Ayyubid, Fatimid, Ottoman, and Moroccan civilizations.
He also highlighted the subtle differences between arches, windows, and decorative elements, attempting to simplify these concepts and connect them to the everyday visual landscape of Damascus.
He said that his artistic project involves creating sculptures using olive seeds after subjecting them to meticulous treatments that allow them to be shaped in a way that mimics Damascene stone.
Shaiban noted that the uniqueness of each seed necessitates extra effort to achieve visual harmony within the artwork, adding that his works carry a message that transcends mere aesthetics, reflecting the concept of “coexistence” through the integration of diverse religious and architectural elements, such as combining a mosque and a church in a single scene. This, he explained, expresses the pluralism that has characterized Damascene society throughout its history. He added that every detail in his paintings tells a story connected to the place and its people.
Shaiban also addressed the difficulties he faced while working under the deposed regime, including being summoned by security forces after his work gained media attention due to statements he made about the realities and suffering of artisans.
He further noted that the lack of financial support forced his sons, despite learning the trade, to abandon it due to its lack of economic viability.
In a related context, Shaiban revealed that he attempted to register his work in the Guinness World Records, but the high costs prevented him from completing the process.
He called on official bodies to support artisans and provide suitable workspaces, emphasizing his readiness to cooperate with the Ministry of Culture or any relevant body to develop this art and teach it to new generations through training workshops that contribute to preserving and developing this heritage.
Mazen Shaiban is a Syrian visual artist from Damascus with three decades of experience in sculpture using olive pits and date kernels. He has been a member of the Craftsmen’s Association for approximately seven years.
Mazen
