Tag: Middle East Records

SAUDI ARABIA: Young Saudi Designer Lamees Alfadhel Designed ‘Qitmeer’ which Produces Vegan Leather Sheets from Wasted Dates

The vegan leather-making machine Qitmeer works by grinding the dates, mixing them with additives, then pouring them into molds to start the first half of the drying process before preparing them for the finishing and coloring processes.

Curiosity was her guide, creatively unveiling the hidden wonders in the ordinary, and product designer Lamees Alfadhel designed Qitmeer, a machine that produces vegan leather sheets using damaged and wasted dates.

Qitmeer was the young designer’s graduation project. Fascinated by science, creativity, and the ability to shape human interaction with the world, Alfadhel explored several academic paths before discovering her passion and purpose in product design.

“While I may not have realized it immediately after high school, I soon discovered that product design brings together a captivating mix of different disciplines, allowing me to combine my interests and create innovative solutions,” said Alfadhel, a first-class honors product design graduate from Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University.

Alfadhel’s interest in culture, sustainability, and building a greener future through design sparked the young designer to base her graduation research in the natural leather industry in the Kingdom.

“I find inspiration in cultural designs that incorporate elements of my country, such as the iconic date palm trees,” she said.

She found two main challenges facing the natural leather industry in the Kingdom: the chemical damage resulting from the leather processes and the massive amount of wasted dates.

I’m looking forward to producing the most unique leather sheets in the industry. Sustainabilityisacore value guiding my work, dedicated to building a greener future through design.

Lamees Alfadhel, Product designer

“These challenges inspired me to design a machine that combines a solution for both issues,” said Alfadhel.

The vegan leather-making machine Qitmeer works by grinding the dates, mixing them with additives, then pouring them into molds to start the first half of the drying process before preparing them for the finishing and coloring processes.

The vegan leather sheets then become ready for the manufacturing and production operation, which includes the making of leather clothing and accessories.

Fibers are an essential part of the vegan synthetic leather-making process, and dates are the optimal choice for this industry, considering that they have a high fiber content.

“I’m looking forward to producing the most unique leather sheets in the industry. Sustainability is a core value guiding my work, dedicated to building a greener future through design,” said Alfadhel.

Qitmeer has been positively received by people. It encourages others to use elements and sources available in the Kingdom, explained Alfadhel.

Today, young creatives, including Alfadhel, have the opportunity to make their mark on the national and global art and design scene, with the Kingdom’s cultural renaissance supporting and inspiring a new generation, a key part of Saudi Arabia’s visionary economic and social plan to build a creative economy.

“The design community in the Kingdom has witnessed significant growth and recognition in recent years,” said Alfadhel.

“There are numerous initiatives, organizations, and government-backed programs that actively promote and support designers across various disciplines.”

Alfadhel has worked on several projects and her first was an interactive game with topic-based cards, designed to encourage teamwork.

She added: “Among the projects I’ve worked on, I take great pride in highlighting Qitmeer as my most significant achievement so far.”

Qitmeer was selected and featured in Tanween’s “Graduation Exhibition” at Ithra last November. The exhibition highlights the most outstanding work by graduates of design and architecture colleges and universities in the Arab world.

Alfadhel mostly uses Adobe Creative Cloud, Illustrator, and Photoshop for her designs. When sketching the initial idea, and 3D modeling, she uses the Fusion 360 platform.

“Fusion 360 is a fundamental part of my creative process, allowing me to bring ideas to life and refine them with attention to detail,” she said.

“Lately I’ve realized that the most used color in my designs is green, but that relies on the purpose of the product I design. Searching to understand the meaning of colors is an important step of my design process.”

The world has witnessed influential product designers who have set new standards in place, leaving a mark behind, and Alfadhel’s passion for design and unwavering commitment and determination to contribute to the design industry mark her out as a possible addition to the growing list.

She is currently working as a graphic designer and a marketing specialist in Riyadh and aspires to collaborate with local talents to foster the growth and development of young Saudi creatives in the Kingdom.

source/content: arabnews.com (headline edited)

____________

Lamees Alfadhel designed Qitmeer, a machine that produces vegan leather sheets using damaged and wasted dates.

__________________

SAUDI ARABIA

MAURITANIA – SHARJAH, U.A.E: New eco-friendly Headquarters of ‘Arabic Language Council, Mauritania’, funded by Sharjah Ruler, opens in Mauritania

The Academy will nurture the development of the language in Mauritania and beyond, bringing together an elite group of scholars dedicated to the cause.

The new headquarters of the Arabic Language Council in Nouakchott, Mauritania, was inaugurated on Monday under the patronage of Mauritania President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani, and through the contribution of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, and Supreme President of the Arabic Language Academy (ALA) in Sharjah.

Development of the Arabic language

Ahmed Sid Ahmed Dié, Mauritanian Minister of Culture, Youth, Sports and Relations with Parliament, presided over the ceremony, expressing gratitude for the generous contribution from Sheikh Dr. Sultan. The Academy in Mauritania will nurture the development of the Arabic language in Mauritania and beyond, bringing together an elite group of scholars dedicated to this noble cause.

The ceremony was also attended by several senior diplomatic and media figures, as well as heads of Arab language academies.

During the event, Mohamed Hassan Khalaf, an ALA Board of Trustees member and Director-General of the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, conveyed a message to the community of linguists and researchers in Mauritania from the Ruler of Sharjah. He also spoke about the importance of supporting major scientific projects and continuous efforts to empower the Arabic language in various countries worldwide, highlighting the strong relationship between the UAE and the Mauritania.

Championing Islamic and Arabic culture

Ahmed Sid Ahmed Dié presented a commemorative shield to the Ruler of Sharjah, and was received by Mohamed Hassan Khalaf in appreciation of Sheikh Dr. Sultan’s efforts in championing Islamic and Arabic culture and language, in various countries around the world.

Dr. Khalil Al Nahwi, Chairman of the Arabic Language Council in Mauritania, delivered a speech congratulating the attendees, the entire Mauritanian population and all guardians of the Arabic language. He also reviewed the council’’s achievements over the past five years, praising the support it receives directly from the Ruler of Sharjah and the Arabic Language Academy in Sharjah.

Ahmed Sid Ahmed Dié, along with Mohamed Hassan Khalaf and Dr. Mohamed Safi Al Mosteghanemi, Secretary-General of ALA, unveiled a commemorative plaque marking the opening of the building before the ceremonial cutting of the ribbon, and was followed by a tour of the impressive building, designed in the Mauritanian architectural style.

Built with eco-friendly materials, the new headquarters consists of two floors and includes several administrative offices, study halls, meeting rooms, and an expansive library. The main building is accompanied by a hall named Al Qasimiya Hall to be used for seminars and events. The headquarters also houses a mosque that can accommodate more than 300 worshippers.

Situated in the University district on land provided by the Mauritanian government, the entire construction and furnishing of this significant establishment were funded by the Ruler of Sharjah.

source/content: khaleejtimes.com (headline edited)

___________

___________________________________

MAURITANIA / SHARJAH, U.A.E

SAUDI ARABIA: ‘World’s Highest Hanging Prayer Room’ opens with Spectacular view of Kaaba and other Religious Landmarks in Mecca

Saudi Arabia’s record-breaking hanging prayer room offers spectacular Kaaba views.’

Saudi Arabia has set a new world record with the opening of the highest hanging prayer room, as recognised by Guinness World Records.

Situated at a breathtaking 483 meters above sea level, this architectural marvel offers unparalleled views of the Kaaba and other significant religious landmarks in Mecca.

Nestled within the bridge connecting the two towers of the Address Jabal Omar Mecca Hotel, the prayer room is not just a feat of engineering but also a testament to architectural ingenuity and creative prowess.

Using the latest technology and specially designed equipment, the 650-tonne steel bridge was initially assembled at 312 meters above ground before being elevated to its final position, linking the hotel’s twin towers across floors 36, 37, and 38.

The hall, which can accommodate up to 520 worshippers in a spacious 550 square meter area, blends traditional Arabic designs with modern luxury. Arabic calligraphy adorns its interiors, enhancing the room’s sanctity with the names of Allah and reflecting the rich Islamic heritage.

Worshippers in this prayer hall are treated to a spiritual experience filled with peace and tranquility. During Fajr prayers, they can witness the sunrise over Mecca, while the sunset bathes the chapel in warm.

source/content: gulfnews.com (headline edited)

_________

It was initially assembled at 312 meters above ground before being elevated to its final position, linking the hotel’s twin towers across floors 36, 37, and 38. / Image Credit: Courtesy of X/@ThamerAlbugami

__________________

SAUDI ARABIA

SYRIA : Planting Hope: Dr. Safaa Kumari , the Syrian Refugee- Plant Virologist who Developed Virus-Resistant Super-Seeds

Plant virologist Dr Safaa Kumari discovered seeds that could safeguard food security in the region – and risked her life to rescue them from Aleppo.

The call came as she sat in her hotel room. “They gave us 10 minutes to pack up and leave,” Dr Safaa Kumari was told down a crackling phone line. Armed fighters had just seized her house in Aleppo and her family were on the run.

Kumari was in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, preparing to present a conference. She immediately began organising a sprint back to Syria. Hidden in her sister’s house was a small but very valuable bundle that she was prepared to risk her life to recover.

Kumari is a plant virologist. Her work focuses on a quiet yet devastating development crisis. Climate-fuelled virus epidemics affecting fava beans, lentils and chickpeas are spreading from Syria to Ethiopia, gradually destroying the livelihoods of low-income populations. Known as “poor man’s meat”, these pulses are vital for both income generation and food security in many parts of the world.

Finding a cure was urgent, Kumari explains. Hopeless farmers were seeing increasing levels of infected crops turning yellow and black. The cause? “Climate change provides aphids with the right temperatures to breed exponentially and spread the epidemics,” she says.

For 10 years, Kumari worked to find a solution. Finally, she discovered a bean variety naturally resistant to one of the viruses: the fava bean necrotic yellow virus (FBNYV). “When I found those resistant seeds, I felt there was something important in them,” says Kumari from her lab in Lebanon where she now works. Only the fighting in Syria had moved. “I had left them at my sister’s in central Aleppo to protect them from the fighting,” she says.

Determined not to let a war get in the way of her work “for the world’s poor”, Kumari felt it her duty to rescue the seeds in Aleppo. “I was thinking: how am I going to get those seeds out of Syria?

“I had to go through Damascus, and then drive all the way to Aleppo. There was fighting and bombings everywhere.” After two days’ driving along dangerous roads, seeds in hand, Kumari made it to Lebanon, where she now works as a researcher at Icarda (International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas) in the Bekaa valley, close to the Syrian border. Hassan Machlab, Icarda’s country manager says: “Many of the Syrian scientists we welcomed here have suffered. It is tough.”

But bringing the seeds to safety was only the beginning. Kumari needed to turn them into a sustainable solution.

As crop production collapsed in the region, producers started to rely heavily on insecticides. “Most farmers go to the field and spray it without safety material – masks and appropriate jacket,” she says. “Some are dying, others are getting sick or developing pregnancy issues.”

At first, the sample failed. “So we crossed them with another variety that had a better yield and obtained something that is both resistant and productive,” says Kumari. “When we release it, it will be environment-friendly and provide farmers with a good yield, more cheaply and without insecticide.”

Kumari now plans to distribute her super-seeds free to farmers. She has already turned down an offer from a large company for the virus detection technology.

“They wanted to buy our product and then sell it to the farmers, but we refused,” says Kumari. “Ours is free. It’s our responsibility to provide our solutions to people everywhere,” she says.

But, as for many Syrian refugees, the war is never far from her thoughts, “Something she won’t tell you is that it wasn’t easy for her,” says Machlab. “She was working on all this and she didn’t have a clear mind as her family were in Aleppo and her house was destroyed.”

Kumari adds: “Last week I saw my family in Turkey. I have five sisters and three brothers, scattered in Germany, Turkey, Syria. The last time we met was in Aleppo in 2012. When I came back someone told me ‘Safaa, you’re looking great today!’ Of course, I had just spent time with my family again!” she says, laughing.

But she adds: “It’s not easy for me, it’s not easy for a woman to work on agriculture (research). It’s not easy, but it’s OK.

“When I’m working, I’m not thinking I am a Syrian or a woman though. But I do feel I sometimes receive funding [from westerners] because I’m a woman,” she says. “Perhaps!”

source/content: thegurardian.com (headline edited)

____________

Dr Safaa Kumari’s seeds are resistant to the climate-fuelled viruses that have destroyed crops of pulses in Syria. Photograph: Courtesy of Arab Society for Plant Protection

_________

SYRIA

LEBANON: Looking back on the life of ‘Lebanese Picasso’ Hussein Madi

Renowned artist who died in Beirut this week spent 2 decades studying and working in Rome, and had his work showcased across the world.

The veteran Lebanese master Hussein Madi, renowned for his vibrant paintings, has died in Beirut. Often called the “Lebanese Picasso,” Madi crafted his own visual language, peppered with bird motifs, curvy women, and geometrical symmetry, that made his bold oeuvre look instantly recognizable amongst Arab art enthusiasts.

Fellow artists and gallerists took to social media to offer their condolences. On Instagram, the Lebanese artist Abed Al-Kadiri posted some old snapshots of Madi in his studio and wrote. “Today at his burial ceremony Madi joined his flock of birds, flying alone, united with himself, just as he always lived.”

Maliha Tabari, founder of Dubai’s Tabari Artspace, said that Madi was the first artist she worked with in 2003, which proved to be an invaluable experience. “I’ll never forget the afternoons that would turn to evenings spent on his balcony in Beirut, delving into intense discussions of form explained by him through the curve of a pomegranate or a bird’s wing,” Tabari posted. “We lost not only a key figure from our region’s art journey, but also a father figure.”

Madi, who was also a sculptor, printmaker, educator and press illustrator, was born in the southern Lebanese town of Shebaa in 1938. While his parents reportedly did not approve of his artistic pursuits, it was his encouraging grandfather that saw potential in Madi. He left his parents’ home at the tender age of 19. He reportedly supported himself financially by submitting caricatures to newspapers in Lebanon and Iraq.

In the early 1960s, Madi was a student at the Lebanese Academy of Fine Arts. He later went on to have an international education, by traveling to the exciting art capital of Rome, in 1963, where he enrolled at the Accademia di Belle Arti. 

He would spend nearly the next two decades of his life in Rome, before returning for good to Lebanon in 1986, while the civil war was still happening. “I bitterly regret not having remained in Rome because of all the frustrations I endured since my return to Beirut. In fact, civil war drastically affected the course of my life,” Madi once said.

In Lebanon, Madi devoted himself to his canvas, showcasing his work in several art galleries in Beirut. For 10 years, starting in 1982, Madi was also president of the Lebanese Art Association. 

Madi’s paintings offer a visually appealing melange of thick lines, repetitive patterns, angular shapes, natural scenes, and bright colors. There is an element of spontaneity, presented in an orderly fashion. His images are also populated with figures, holding a book, a musical instrument — or simply reclining. “Despite all the mishaps, I was deeply happy. My work celebrated life,” he said.

Over the years, Madi’s artworks have been featured in auction sales at Christie’s and Sotheby’s. His works have also been acquired by regional and international art institutions including the Barjeel Art Foundation (Sharjah), Dalloul Art Foundation (Beirut), Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art (Doha), Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts (Amman), British Museum (London) and Institut du Monde Arabe (Paris).

source/content: arabnews.com (headline edited)

____________

Renowned artist Hussein Madi who died in Beirut this week spent 2 decades studying and working in Rome, and had his work showcased across the world. (Instagram)

_____________

LEBANON

UA.E.: Recognized Global Pioneer: UAE to lead World Bank’s Cloud Computing Working Group. Dr. Bushra AlBlooshi, Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC) Appointed as the Leader of the Cloud Computing Division within the World Bank Group.

Cloud computing to add $181 bn to UAE’s economy by 2033.

The UAE has been chosen to lead the Cloud Computing Working Group within the World Bank, a testament to its remarkable progress in advanced technology and digitization. Recognized as a global pioneer in digital transformation and the successful implementation of cloud computing best practices, the UAE assumes this role to support both government entities and private sector companies in their transition to cloud computing systems. By prioritizing the utilization of cutting-edge data protection and cybersecurity solutions, the UAE reaffirms its commitment to facilitating the seamless adoption of cloud technology while ensuring utmost security for all stakeholders.

Sheikh Hamdan congratulates Dr. AlBlooshi

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and chairman of the Executive Council, extended his congratulations to Dr. Bushra AlBlooshi from the Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC) on being appointed as the leader of the Cloud Computing division within the World Bank Group.

In addition, Sheikh Hamdan posted the message on X (formerly Twitter) and said, “Congratulations to Dr Bushra AlBlooshi of the Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC) on being appointed by the World Bank as the head of the World Bank Group for Cloud Computing, comprising of 27 countries, organisations, and major international technology firms.” 

He added, “We are immensely proud of the continuous achievements of Emirati talent. With their expertise and accomplishments, they further strengthen the UAE’s international stature and role in advancing global sustainable digital development.

According to her profile on the World Economic Forum (WEF), Dr. AlBlooshi possesses more than 17 years of expertise in digital transformation, cybersecurity, and strategy management. She is recognized as an author and a prominent speaker in the areas of cybersecurity and digital transformation, demonstrating her extensive experience in the field.

Significance of cloud adoption for GDP growth

A report commissioned by Amazon Web Services (AWS) revealed in May that the widespread adoption of cloud technology among the public is projected to contribute an estimated $181 billion in economic value to the UAE over the next decade. This figure represents approximately 2.5 percent of the UAE’s economy. The paper further highlighted that a mere 1 percent increase in cloud adoption by organizations in the UAE would result in an average gross domestic product (GDP) growth of 0.21 percent or $854.7 million. This growth rate is three times higher than the regional average for the Middle East and North Africa, making it the highest in the region.

source/content: economymiddleeast.com (headline edited)

_________

Dr. Bushra AlBlooshi of the Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC) appointed by the World Bank as the head of the World Bank Group for Cloud Computing, comprising of 27 countries, organisations, and major international technology firms.

____________________________________

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (U.A.E.)

MOROCCO: Forbes 50 Over 50 Spotlights Moroccan Scientist Rajaa Cherkaoui El Moursli

Rajaa Cherkaoui El Moursli was part of the research team that made the groundbreaking discovery of the Higgs Boson particle.

Moroccan prominent nuclear physicist Rajaa Cherkaoui El Moursli was featured this year on the list of Forbes 50 Over 50 for the Middle East and Africa (MENA) in recognition of her outstanding scientific contributions.

El Moursli’s research has helped prove the existence of the Higgs Boson, which is the particle responsible for the creation of mass. 

“While her almost 30-year-long career in science has been filled with achievements, it’s a career that would not have existed had she not convinced her father to let her seek out a graduate degree in France in the early 1980s,” Forbes wrote. This was a time when Moroccan women were “expected to leave home to marry and not pursue a vocation.” 

After earning her Ph.D in Nuclear Physics from the University of Joseph Fourier in Grenoble, France, El Moursli returned to Morocco in 1982.  There, she joined the Faculty of Sciences at the University Mohammed V in Rabat. 

Early in her career, she took the helm as the head of the Laboratory of Nuclear Physics in Rabat.  El Moursli’s research focuses on the applications of nuclear physics, medical physics, and high-energy physics. 

A pivotal moment in her career occurred in 1996 when she became an integral part of Morocco’s participation in the international ATLAS collaboration at the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN). The event marked her entry into one of the world’s most prestigious scientific research centers, located in Geneva.

El Moursli’s contributions have extended beyond the laboratory giving her membership with international organizations such ATLAS, KM3NET, and ANTARES. 

Within these roles, she has been vital in creating and implementing master’s degree programs at her university, notably creating Morocco’s first master’s program in medical physics. Currently, over thirty graduates from her program hold crucial positions as radio physicists in Moroccan hospitals.

Throughout her career, she has supervised numerous doctoral and master’s students and has played a crucial role in building and strengthening academic programs.

In 2015, she became the first Moroccan to receive the L’Oreal-UNESCO award for Women in Science, representing Africa and the Arab States. 

El Moursli served as VP of Research, Innovation, Cooperation, and Partnership at Mohammed V University.  She also chaired the competition program “My Thesis in 180 Seconds.” 

Her accolades include being a fellow of the World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) and serving on the “For Women in Science” international jury. 

In 2017, she was honored by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation for her outstanding contributions to science and technology in the Islamic world.

Now in 2024, El Moursli continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the global scientific landscape and showcasing Moroccan achievements to the world. 

source/content: moroccoworldnews.com (headline edited)

_________

Moroccan nuclear physicist Rajaa Cherkaoui El Moursli

_____________

MOROCCO

SAUDI ARABIA hosts ‘Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (ICESCO) 44th session of Executive Council

Event will cement the Kingdom’s efforts to promote cultural communication and exchange, scientific and social development.

Saudi Arabia, represented by its National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, is hosting the 44th session of the executive council of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization in Jeddah from Jan. 16 to Jan. 18.

ICESCO media department told Arab News: “The proceedings of the executive council of the 44th Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization will kick off in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on Tuesday (Jan. 16, 2024) with the participation of 54 member states. The event will run until Thursday.”

As the representative of the Kingdom, the NCECS said that hosting the event comes as part of the support provided to the education, culture and science sectors. It is also indicated the Kingdom’s role in driving forward educational, cultural and scientific development, both regionally and globally, it said.

Among the items on the executive council agenda are future strategies and action plans. The organization’s budget will also be discussed.

The council’s final recommendations will be handed over and included in a report to be endorsed by the ICESCO’s biannual general conference, the organization’s policy governing body event.

Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, minister of culture and chairman of the NCECS, said: “The event will cement the Kingdom’s efforts aiming at creating spheres of cultural communication and exchange as well as scientific and social development. These sectors are considered to be cornerstones for developed human societies.”

As a prominent member of ICESCO, it is the strategy of the Kingdom to pursue all avenues supporting the organization’s goals in the best interests of the Muslim world.

Operating under the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, ICESCO is an intergovernmental organization specializing in the development of education, science and culture. Established in 1982 with its headquarters in Rabat, Morocco, ISESCO acts in line with the OIC’s general strategy aimed at achieving sustainable development in these sectors across all Muslim states.

source/content: arabnews.com (headline edited)

SHARJAH, U.A.E: Al Qasimia University Honours ‘Islamic Economics Research Award’ Winners

Under the patronage of H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, Sharjah Centre for Islamic Economics (SCIE) at the university organised a ceremony to honour the winners of the Al Qasimia University Award for Islamic Economics Research, held in the university theatre, in the presence of the President of the University, members of the Board of Trustees, the University Rector, deans of colleges, and members of the Academic, and administrative bodies and students.

Professor Jamal Salem Al Tarifi, President of Al Qasimia University, honoured the award winners and congratulated them on the quality of research presented in Islamic economics studies.

Professor Dr. Awad Al Khalaf, Acting Chancellor of the University, expressed his highest thanks and gratitude to the Ruler of Sharjah, and founder of the University, for His Highness’s generous patronage of the award, as this sponsorship adds value to one of the most important scientific activities that contribute to the renaissance of the economic sector, and the dissemination of the principles and values of Islamic economics, according to scientific foundations, and qualitative scientific research taking into consideration the real need of building a solid economy that achieves UAE development.

The list of researchers included honouring Dr. Badr Al Zaman Khamqani, from the Republic of Algeria, winner in the field of economics, in his research entitled: “A proposed strategy to accelerate the pace of digital transformation in Islamic banks.” Dr. Ahmed Abdel Rahman Ahmed Al Majali, from the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, won in the field of law, in his research entitled: “blockchain technology compatibility with Islamic financial transactions.” Professor Dr. Aisha Muniza, from the Maldives, won in the field of economics, in her research entitled: “Development of a digital Islamic social stock exchange”.

Dr. Yasser Al Hosani, SCIE Director, announced the launch of the fourth edition of the award under the title “Smart Islamic Financial Engineering”.

source/content: wam.ae (headline edited)

____________

______________________________________________

SHARJAH, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (U.A.E)

IRAQI Artist Ali Al-Rawi Breaks Guinness World Record with Giant Drawing

 An Iraqi artist celebrated his culture and history by recreating a mythical beast in a whopping piece of art that took him a whole year to complete, according to Guinness World Records.

The Iraqi young artist, Ali Al-Rawi, created a work of art depicting the ancient Assyrian winged bull by wrapping copper wires around nails attached to wooden boards to create the largest wire art, measuring 203.76 square meters.

The Assyrian winged bull, known as ‘The Lamassu,’ is a mythological hybrid composed of the head of a human, the body of a bull, and the wings of a bird.

This giant artwork extends over the space of approximately 15 car parking spaces, and it took a whole year to complete.

Around 89 thousand nails and 250 kilograms of pure copper formed into wires of 35,714 meters were used on the surface of 18 wooden planks.

Al-Rawi works as a physician assistant in the city of Ramadi in the Iraqi western governorate of Anbar. His artistic talent grew from scribbling on a school bench to now creating epic pieces of art with wires.

Al-Rawi was inspired after seeing a German artist using that technique in 2016.

After a long search online, he couldn’t find anything to teach him how to do it, so he practiced until he mastered the technique on his own.

“I drew a sail at the beginning. But after that, it took me a lot of experimenting to select the usable materials,” Al-Rawi explained.

“I decided on copper wires and one-inch nails with small heads in order not to affect the shape of the work, to make sure the monuments insulate heat, moisture and scratching, as wood is also coated with three materials to serve this purpose,” Al-Rawi added.

Al-Rawi worked hard over the course of a year and had to cover the board’s entire dimensions with wires of different colors to meet the requirements of breaking the world record.

Al-Rawi moved the entire artwork to several different locations in Iraq to carry out the final measurements and filming.

source/content: iraqinews.com (headline edited)

_________

The Iraqi artist Ali Al-Rawi holding Guinness World Records certificate. Photo: Guinness World Records

pix: guinnessworldrecords.com

_________

IRAQ