Transforming walls with spray paint depiction of ‘diversity’
TDT | Manama
The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com
Report by Zahra Ayaz
Isa Mansoor Saleh, a Bahraini artist with a passion for street art, is making waves in the local art scene by using his spray paint skills to depict the figures and faces of people with diverse skin tones.
In a recent interview with The Daily Tribune, Isa expressed the motivation behind his unique artistic style and the challenges he faces as a local artist.
“Representation is crucial, and unfortunately, individuals with dark skin are often overlooked in our society, both in media and art. I aim to change that narrative through my art,” stated Isa passionately during the interview. Reflecting on his artistic journey, Isa shared, “Meeting fellow artist Arif, also known as ‘Ayfu,’ in 2020 ignited my passion for street art. His admiration for my work and suggestion to showcase it on walls motivated me to invest more in this form of expression.”
When it comes to choosing locations for his artwork, Isa explained, “It depends on the artist’s intentions.
Public settings allow for messages or beauty to be shared with the public, while commissioned projects may be designed for specific establishments such as cafes or private spaces.”
He also highlighted the significance of social media in documenting his creations and reaching a wider audience.
Isa acknowledged the challenges of finding legal walls in Bahrain for street art.
Seeking permission from wall owners and considering the potential reactions of the audience are crucial aspects of the process.
He shared, “Some areas can be more easily offended than others, so it’s important to navigate these sensitivities.”
Reflecting on the reactions he has received, Isa mentioned both positive and negative encounters.
Gratitude
He expressed gratitude for the numerous instances where people cheered for and appreciated his work.
However, he also encountered individuals who failed to understand the value of street art.
Recounting two notable negative experiences, Isa recalled an elderly man dismissing their artwork as a waste of time, emphasizing that it lacked permanence compared to canvas paintings.
Another incident involved a person insisting that Isa paint about love, which escalated into body shaming.
Despite these encounters, Isa remained unfazed, finding them amusing and sources of inspiration for future projects.
Isa’s artwork serves not only as a means of self-expression but also as a platform to foster representation and push artistic boundaries.
Through his vibrant creations, he aims to inspire and empower individuals with dark skin while captivating a wider audience with his distinct style and message.
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