My soul is shaped by the essence of African, Arab, and European influences, each leaving a deep imprint on my identity.
Through life’s journey, I have discovered my own core values formed through experience and reflection.
These values—simplicity, pride, honesty, perfection, and purity of heart are not only the foundation of who I am but also the essence of my artistic expression. Every piece I create is a reflection of my soul, woven with the truths I have come to embrace.
Artist Statement
Born in 1940 in Wad Medani, in Sudan's northern region, I spent my formative years in Malakal, immersed in the rich tapestry of the Nile’s landscapes and the captivating cultures of the Nilotic tribes—the Shuluk, Dinka, and Nuer. It was amidst this backdrop of fine sand, dense jungle, and flowing river that my artistic journey began, painting and sculpting the lives and traditions of these indigenous peoples, particularly their revered sacred bull—a symbol deeply embedded in rituals, dances, and worship.
Upon moving to Khartoum, I received my foundational academic training at the Khartoum School of Art under the mentorship of pioneering figures such as Professors Baghdadi, Williams, and Hawkins, alongside visionary peers like Professors Shibrain and Jamaan. Seeking to expand my artistic horizons, I pursued a degree in exhibition design and painting at the Berlin University of the Arts in 1967, studying under esteemed mentors such as Professors Jacob and Bergmann, both renowned artists in their own right. Returning to Sudan in 1970, I began my professional journey as chief designer at Khartoum University Press before transitioning to academia, where I served as a lecturer, professor, and dean at various institutions in the capital.
My artistic expression is deeply rooted in the shapes, movements, colors, and emotions of my childhood surroundings. Inspired by vivid dreams and persistent ideas, each artwork begins as a fleeting sketch, evolving as I immerse myself in the mediums of canvas and clay. Surrounded by my creations, I find solace and inspiration, continuously challenging myself to explore the depths of my heritage and identity.
My paintings offer intimate glimpses into both my past and present, inviting viewers to contemplate the eternal truths encapsulated within each brushstroke. For me, eyes symbolize windows to the soul, conveying the essence and mystery of truth. The confluence of the Blue and White Nile in Khartoum serves as a profound metaphor in my work, representing tranquility, purity, and unity. Through my "white color philosophy," I transcend racial distinctions, inviting viewers into a realm where humanity is universal.
Having spent years in introspective artistic exploration, I have developed a personal style I call "Free Drawing/Painting Surrealism," characterized by depth, spontaneity, and emotive resonance. Emerging from this journey of self-discovery, I am eager to share my vision with a wider audience, fostering dialogue, exchange, and appreciation for indigenous African art on a global scale.
In seeking recognition, I aspire to bridge cultures, inspire hope, and celebrate the beauty of Sudanese and African heritage. My goal is to ignite a sense of pride and possibility, both within my homeland and beyond, fostering a legacy of creativity and enlightenment for generations to come.
Above all, I am driven by a profound sense of gratitude for those who have guided and inspired me throughout my artistic odyssey. It is my sincerest hope to honor their influence and support, enriching the lives of my family, friends, and students, whom I have had the privilege of teaching for over five decades.