Saudi Arabian artist Khalid Zahid skillfully addresses contentious issues within his home country in an approachable and engaging manner. Born in the UK and raised in Jeddah, Khalid's artistic journey took shape upon his return to Saudi Arabia, where he balanced a corporate career with his true passion for art.
Khalid's artistic evolution began with pop art but quickly transformed into a powerful medium for addressing challenging topics within Saudi society. His work encompasses a range of issues, including women's rights, strict religious rules, and the country's dependence on oil, all presented in easily accessible art pieces.
One of his notable works is "Amal," a doll presented in Barbie-like packaging, wearing an abaya with wings made of car doors. This piece symbolizes the hope that Saudi women would one day have the right to drive, a dream that became a reality in 2018. Khalid's approach is to use a seemingly innocuous exterior to deliver a powerful message.
For him, the key is to "walk the thin red line" without crossing it, aiming to educate and raise awareness in a cheerful and positive way. His art often features unconventional presentations, such as the Amal doll in a toy store setting.
Khalid's work extends beyond addressing social issues. He also tackles religion, a sensitive subject in the region, with a series called "The Simplicity of Islam." This series portrays sheikhs engaging in playful activities, challenging the perception that religion is rigid and stifling. He believes in showcasing the cheerful and human side of religious figures.
His approach to art reflects a belief that a positive and engaging presentation can make people more receptive to important messages. Khalid's work is a blend of whimsy and sincerity, and he does not see a contradiction between deep faith and living life to the fullest. He believes that religion is about simplicity, not difficulty, and seeks to bridge gaps between different perspectives.
Through his art, Khalid hopes to bring people together, showing that we have more in common than we think. He serves as a peacemaker, using his artwork to challenge perceptions and generate conversations about critical issues in Saudi Arabia. His work is a spoonful of sugar that helps the medicine of change go down more smoothly.