Syrian artist tells the story of his country and the suffering of its people

DENIZE MARRA, Arab news, February 11, 2015
‘Heartscapes’, ‘sadscapes’, ‘hopescapes’ — certainly much more than landscapes. When looking at the latest work by Syrian artist Thaier Helal, you can sense in the intricate layers of paint, textures and colors a myriad of experiences and emotions that speak about the country.

“For me it is not just landscapes — it is something behind; I am talking about the lives of the people there through a mix of abstract and contemporary art. It’s not just images – it is a complicated mix of things,” said Helal.

Helal spoke to Arab News in London where his ‘Landmarks’ exhibition is currently being shown at Ayyam Gallery. He explained that this series of paintings are his reflection on his homeland and the tragedy that is being experienced in Syria at this time.