Damascus, April 4 (SANA) While digital technology is transforming the global art scene, Syrian artist Samar al-Helou is holding fast to a centuries-old craft, reaffirming her dedication to traditional engraving and printmaking as a deeply tactile and expressive medium.
A 2020 graduate of the Faculty of Fine Arts at Damascus University, al-Helou has steadily gained recognition in Syria’s graphic arts community. She has participated in group exhibitions and recently held her first solo show at the National Center for Visual Arts in Damascus. Her work merges technical precision with conceptual storytelling, exploring universal themes of human experience.
Speaking to SANA, al-Helou described engraving as one of the oldest visual art forms, where designs are carved into surfaces like copper or wood to create printed images. She explained that the field encompasses a variety of techniques, from manual and chemical etching to intaglio, each producing distinctive visual effects.
“Digital art is growing everywhere,” she said, “but manual engraving has a unique ability to carry emotion. The physical effort, the texture of the material, and the hands-on process add depth and authenticity that cannot be replicated on a screen.” Her compositions often employ monochromatic palettes of black, white, and gray, highlighting contrast and emotional nuance.
Originally from Hasakah, al-Helou graduated top of her class and has participated in numerous exhibitions, including Damascus’ annual Spring Exhibition. Her work reflects surrealist influences while addressing contemporary human and women’s issues, demonstrating how Syria’s rich artistic heritage can coexist with modern perspectives.
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