Safiyah Abaalkhail

About

My name is Safiyah Abaalkhail, and I am a Saudi artist and curator based in London. Currently, I am pursuing an MA in Curating Contemporary Art from the RCA. I completed my BA in Fine Arts from Chelsea College of Arts (UAL) in June 2023. Also, I am the co-founder of Fekr Arabia, an online platform dedicated to promoting the creative scene in the MENA region. My work is rooted in decolonial approaches and explores the impact of Orientalism on the art world in this region.

My curatorial practice is dedicated to decolonisation, exploring alternative spaces, and promoting global cultural collaboration. I aim to challenge colonial legacies through immersive and inclusive storytelling, transcending the physicality of space through innovative thinking that challenges Eurocentric norms in today’s art world, and transforming traditional spaces into environments that engage diverse cultural backgrounds. Central to my practice is the belief that curating should serve as a catalyst for societal transformation. This involves fostering community-centred spaces that prioritise inclusivity and dialogue, which is central to my work. The history, culture, and artistic expression of the MENA region are fundamental to my practice, embodying the principles of decolonisation. I strive to curate exhibitions that serve as catalysts for societal transformation, challenging traditional curatorial methods and reshaping colonial histories. My curatorial approach is rooted in the idea that art can be a powerful tool for challenging social norms and fostering cultural dialogue. By focusing on immersive environments and interactive exhibitions, I seek to create spaces where diverse voices and perspectives can be heard and valued. I draw inspiration from various collectives and practices that emphasise community engagement and cultural collaboration. My goal is to create projects that offer a platform for marginalised voices and foster a deeper understanding of the socio-political and cultural contexts that shape art and its reception. Through this approach, I hope to contribute to the ongoing effort to decolonise the art world and promote a more inclusive and equitable cultural landscape.

In our group project, ‘No Passive Mingling,’ created for the graduate showcase, we developed an interactive exhibition that invited visitors into an atmosphere of play, communication, partnership, and collaboration. Initially a response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, ‘No Passive Mingling’ aimed to recreate the vibrant social environments of gallery openings. This project transformed my understanding of alternative spaces as powerful platforms for community engagement and storytelling. Working collaboratively, we explored how immersive environments can challenge social norms and foster dialogue.

Instagram: @safiyahabaalkhail