Artist's Paintings Ruptures World Cultural Barriers

European Artist revolutionizes perception of Islamic Art through unity

Dubai, UAE – 10 March 2014 – While most cultural artists choose to focus on their own culture, Savannah has chosen to set herself apart from the stereotype. The French-born artist has instead focused on offering a tribute to Islam through her artistic masterpieces. She has broken religious and cultural barriers in the UAE with her latest works, “ISLAM" The Ultimate Collection unites people from different backgrounds where the strong message of peace has its impact. Based in the Emirates since July 2013, the eighteen years old is the world’s youngest non-Muslim artist to have created a novel and unique Islamic art collection.

Savannah uses her art to depict the tolerance and beauty that Islamic culture holds. “The knowledge of different traditions and cultures and the appreciation of multi-culturism is what makes societies grow,” she says. Savannah goes on to add, “This collection was created to open minds and encourage the knowledge, the understanding and the need to be more tolerant to the world of Islam and the beauty it portrays to art lovers, not only for Muslims but for people of all religions and beliefs in this world.”

“ISLAM" The Ultimate Collection comprises 16 striking, tasteful paintings respectfully combining an ancient culture with modernity, each employing the perfect mastery of colours. Veronika Gess, with her own creative touch, has complemented Savannah’s creations with ancient Arabic calligraphy from Islam’s holiest scripture, the Qu’ran. Their collaborative work, vision and innovative style serves as an inspiration to other members of the Artistic community worldwide.

Each painting from the collection has a message of its own. The painting, ‘In the name of Allah – Mosque’, depicts the silhouette of a mosque as a sober and simple background. The calligraphy it bears signifies the teachings of Allah and that he is always there. The colours in one of her more abstract paintings, ‘Surat Al Fatiha’, represent life on Earth and the hardships that human beings face, while the calligraphy represents the guidance of Allah. In Noor Allah Noor, the mesmerising mixture of purple and pastel tones express tranquillity while the calligraphy symbolizes blessings. ‘Allah’ (in ancient Kufi) signifies looking from above on the earth in perpetual move, the reflection of Allah (mirror effect) slowly descending on human mankind as an everlasting blessing.

During her time in France and Switzerland, Savannah was heavily influenced by the works of classical artists including Monet and Leonardo da Vinci. Upon moving to the UK she developed a passion an appreciation for modern art and was inspired by artists including Harring and Warhol. Savannah has previously participated at exhibitions in the UK and won an Art competition. She plans to bring her earlier works to the UAE. In her efforts to spread her message of beauty, peace and harmony, Savannah aims to have her collections featured at the prestigious Louvre Museum in Abu Dhabi and wishes the collection to travel at other museums across the world.

The U.A.E., ruled by H.H. Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, has been the centre of attention for many decades which made this region a land of opportunity where innovation has always been at the forefront of the international scene as well as Dubai’s ruler, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, with his vision and pledge for excellence, undeniably, made his city the Capital of the World.