Parasol Dana: Bridging Cultures Through Art
SAFIR is proud to present the latest exhibition by Syrian artist Dana Alnafouri, a dedicated SAFIR artist since 2017. This exhibition, titled “Parasol Dana,” will be held at the BUoY Arts Center Tokyo from September 26-30, 2024 and stands as a testament to the resilience and creativity of Syrian artists and underscores the importance of initiatives that nurture and sustain the arts. SAFIR was happy to support by enabling her to present her art here in Tokyo and sponsoring this exhibition.
Dana Alnafouri’s presence in East Asia underscores the importance of connecting diverse Asian cultures. Her work emphasizes that Syria, as part of West Asia, shares deep cultural and historical ties with the East. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between different parts of Asia, fostering mutual understanding and dialogue. By showcasing Syrian art in Japan and South Korea, including Dana’s solo exhibition at the CICA Museum in July 2024 sponsored by SAFIR, the initiative is helping to weave a richer tapestry of cultural exchange, reminding us of the sacred connections that have existed since ancient times and the cultural aspects of the Silk Road. This effort reflects a shared vision to celebrate the resilience and creativity of Syrian artists while promoting a deeper, cross-regional appreciation of art and heritage.
Dana’s exhibition draws inspiration from her childhood memories, particularly the vibrant worlds of Japanese animation. Growing up in Syria, the Japanese cartoon Parasol Henbē (مغامرات سنبل) left a lasting impact on her, blending with the landscapes of her homeland to fuse reality and imagination. Created by Fujiko Fujio, Parasol Henebē was a beloved 1980s cartoon in the Arab world, featuring a cheerful character from a magical world filled with rainbows; this show evoked a sense of a safe and happy world.
Dana explains that the fantastical scenes from these animations coexist with memories of life in Damascus and the Syrian countryside, inspiring scenes of nostalgic and imaginative paintings of imaginary worlds. Cultural influences and personal memories interplay, where the whimsical and the real merge into colorful, playful compositions. The use of UV light introduces another layer, revealing hidden details and transforming the viewing experience, much like the way childhood perceptions change over time.
The panoramic landscapes of Stolac, an ancient European city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, reflect this spirit of playfulness. The natural beauty of the area, with its cozy homes nestled in nature, feels like an imaginary world brought to life, complementing the vibrant, fantastical elements of Dana’s other works. During the 19th International Summer School Youth and Heritage, Dana drew sketches of the scenic nature of Stolac, which later further inspired her paintings.