Traversing Artistic Realms: Exploring the Canvases of Nour El Hadi Awad 

Traversing Artistic Realms: Exploring the Canvases of Nour El Hadi Awad 

Dr. Sara Bint Moneer Khan 

Before I even engaged in conversation with Nour El Hadi Awad from his home in Qatar while I sat in Cape Town, I was enraptured by the intricacies of his artistic process. In conversation, it's as if a thread of nostalgia, longing, and an unbreakable bond with his homeland of Sudan weaves through every thought. Awad's approach to art transcends mere representation; it's about shaping and expressing the very essence of the elements that surround him, a sentiment deeply rooted in his connection to Sudan.

Awad, a resident of Qatar for the past 15 years, invites us to explore the profound influence of his Sudanese upbringing on his artistic journey. Reflecting on this journey, Awad traces his passion for painting back to his earliest years. "Even as a child, I found solace in capturing the world around me through art," he recalls. Embracing painting full-time after a career setback, Awad's dedication to his craft remains unwavering.

Awad’s world is one of tradition, seamlessly intertwined with innovation, and echoes of heritage. The artist’s ability to infuse personal experiences and emotion into his work is exemplified in his soft-spoken yet precise reflections, as he delves poignantly into his practice. Awad has delved into the dynamics of power within Sudanese society, capturing moments of vulnerability and resilience with striking clarity. His work carries a raw, emotive intensity through painfully beautiful depictions of marginalised individuals and the scars of war. He confronts the pervasive influence of authority in shaping lives and destinies.

Standing amidst the bustling atmosphere of the Grand Mosque in Khartoum, Awad shares how he found himself immersed in a vivid depiction of human experience, which he later translates into his artwork. Surrounding him are individuals grappling with disabilities and unmet needs, their faint smiles conveying the weight of their struggles. As he observes their movements, he is transported back to moments shared within this sacred space, where contemplation of life's complexities once consumed him.

Venturing beyond the confines of the city, Awad describes the harsh realities endured by those dwelling on its outskirts—a landscape marred by the scars of conflict, experiences that inform his artistic expression. Here, humble dwellings resembling huts offer refuge to families, while barefoot children navigate their surroundings under the shadow of authority. Amidst the chaotic backdrop of the marketplace, these young souls partake in a bittersweet symphony of play, their innocence starkly juxtaposed against the harshness of their daily existence.

In the urban landscape, towering concrete structures serve as symbols of opulence and privilege. Within these imposing edifices, the elite emerge, adorned in lavish attire, their presence accompanied by a retinue of attendants. Among them, a meticulously laden cart serves as a testament to the intricate web of familial responsibilities and societal expectations, encapsulating the essence of status and inheritance. Yet, amidst these reflections on power and privilege in his artwork, Awad's process takes an unexpected turn—a moment of vulnerability and raw emotion laid bare on canvas. In an anecdote, he recounts searching for a specific colour in the dead of night, only to find a needle that inadvertently pricks his finger. Unfazed by the pain, he uses his own blood to create the desired hue—a visceral reminder of the intimacy inherent in the artistic process.

Colour plays a pivotal role in Awad's artistic expression, serving as a conduit for emotion and narrative. "Colours are the heartbeat of my work," he asserts. "I employ a vibrant palette to evoke a range of emotions and convey intricate narratives within my pieces."

Reflecting on my own first transformative experience with Sudanese modernism at the 'Word into Art' exhibition in 2006 at the British Museum, I was captivated by the work of Ibrahim El Salahi, deeply moved by its profound impact on my artistic perspective. What struck me most was the fusion of diverse artistic styles—African figurative motifs, intricate Islamic calligraphy, abstract forms, and Nubian and Western influences. This fusion serves as the essence of Sudanese art today, imbuing it with a unique vitality both in African and Arab modern art scenes. It reflects the intricate interplay of cultures along the Nile River. As the Nile gracefully traverses the valleys of Sudan to Egypt before merging with the Mediterranean, it emerges not just as a river of commerce but as a melting pot of cultures, nurturing a rich environment for artistic creation, such as the Khartoum school.

The legacy of the Khartoum School, spearheaded by Ibrahim El-Salahi, has deeply inspired generations of artists like Awad alongside his peers and predecessors, including Ibrahim El Salahi, Fathi Afifi, Salah Elmur, Hussein Shariffe, Mohamed Abdalla Otaybi, and Kamala Ibrahim Ishaq. Together, they have left an indelible mark on Sudan's vibrant artistic scene, exploring themes of identity, memory, and societal dynamics. 

Their bodies of work stand as a testament to the elegance of abstraction and a keen sensitivity to figuration, form, composition, and colour. Within this constellation of artistic luminaries, Awad's canvases echo a deep reverence for tradition while embracing the currents of contemporary art. Characterised by a striking palette, spontaneity and continuous evolution, his art transcends historical boundaries, resulting in works of exceptional aesthetic power and social significance.

As I navigate through Awad's oeuvre, I am continuously struck by the subtle yet profound connections to his Sudanese predecessors. Kamala Ibrahim Ishaq, whose work often features mythology, storytelling, the communal experiences of women and local histories, for example, resonates with Awad's multifaceted approach to artistic expression. While their visual styles may differ, with Awad’s figures persisting with a striking vibrancy in hue and composition, both artists share a common goal: to reflect on Sudanese societal nuances. 

Awad extends an invitation to embark upon a journey of introspection and collective dialogue, weaving together the threads of past, present, and future into a luminous tapestry of hope and possibility. Awad's passionate discourse about Sudan reveals a profound reverence for its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage amid the modernity of Qatar where he now resides. It stirs within him an intense longing for Sudan that inspires Awad to paint scenes from his village. His artistic expression becomes a reflection of his deep-seated connection that transcends physical distance.

As Awad reflects on the evolution of his artistic identity, he acknowledges the profound impact of each experience and observation on his work. From the smoothness of his nails to the lines that form on his canvases, Awad's art reflects the world around him—a world teeming with emotion, memory, and the constant flux of existence. As he continues to sketch lines for future experiences, Awad's journey serves as a testament to the enduring power and the indelible mark that one's homeland leaves on their artistic expression.

I am reminded of the words of French artist Henri Matisse: "Creativity takes courage." Indeed, Awad's artistic journey is marked by the courage to confront societal injustices, the courage to explore personal narratives, and the courage to redefine Sudanese art on a global stage. In his canvases, I see not only the story of a nation but also the universal quest for meaning and belonging.

"Each stroke of my brush is a reflection of the vivid recollections from my formative years," Awad shares, underscoring the intimate connection between his art and his upbringing. Awad's captivating pieces transport viewers to the serene landscapes of Karni Island, his birthplace in northern Sudan. "The untouched beauty of my village compelled me to capture its essence on canvas," he explains. "Every detail, from the lush vegetation to the bustling wildlife, serves as an homage to my roots." 

Others delve into a poignant tale passed down by Awad's grandmother—an emotional portrayal of a woman yearning for reunion with her brother. "The symbolism embedded conveys the depth of emotion and longing within the protagonist," Awad elaborates, inviting viewers to delve into the layers of his storytelling.

Throughout his oeuvre, Awad skillfully juxtaposes themes of unity and societal shifts, offering a poignant commentary on the world around him. "I aim to evoke nostalgia for a time when communities worked together in harmony," he remarks, urging viewers to reflect on the changing dynamics of society.

With a portfolio boasting both group and solo exhibitions across cultural centres in Qatar and Sudan, Awad's artistic vision continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Whether sketching with a marker pen or painting on canvas, Awad's commitment to his craft shines through. "Art is not just a passion; it's my lifeline," he declares. "It is through painting that I find my truest expression and connect with the world around me."

‍Cover artwork: Nour El Hadi, Untitled, 2020. Acrylic on Canvas, 90 X 120 cm 

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