Sarah Mohanna Al Abdali: The Street Artist Shaping Saudi Narratives

In the evolving landscape of Saudi Arabia’s contemporary art scene, few voices resonate as powerfully as Sarah Mohanna Al Abdali’s. A pioneer of street art in the Kingdom, she has used her work to challenge norms, provoke conversations, and highlight cultural heritage. From the historic streets of Jeddah to the walls of the British Museum, Al Abdali’s art is a fusion of tradition, commentary, and modern expression.

A Vision Rooted in Heritage

For Sarah Mohanna Al Abdali, art is more than just a form of expression—it is a means of dialogue. Born in Jeddah in 1989, her roots trace back to the culturally rich Hejaz region. She was drawn to art from an early age, leading her to study graphic design at Dar Al-Hekma College before furthering her education at The Prince’s School of Traditional Arts in London. Her artistic foundation blends modern design principles with deep cultural narratives, making her one of the most compelling voices in Saudi contemporary art.

Breaking Boundaries with Street Art

Al Abdali’s rise to prominence began in the alleys of Jeddah’s historic district, where she became one of Saudi Arabia’s first street artists. Her graffiti wasn’t just about aesthetics—it was a statement. One of her most impactful pieces critiqued overdevelopment in the sacred city of Mecca, sparking conversations about urban transformation and cultural preservation.

At a time when street art was largely absent from Saudi Arabia’s urban landscape, Al Abdali’s work represented a groundbreaking shift. She introduced the Kingdom to a new form of artistic activism, using public spaces as her canvas to voice concerns and reflections on society.

Expanding Artistic Expression

While Al Abdali’s early works were rooted in street art, her artistic journey has since expanded to illustration, painting, and ceramics. Her work seamlessly merges graphic design with elements from Saudi and Arab culture, drawing from traditional patterns, calligraphy, and motifs that evoke a strong sense of identity.

Her ability to transcend artistic mediums has led to significant recognition. In 2012, she was featured in the Soft Powerexhibition at Alaan Artspace in Saudi Arabia. She has also showcased her work at the British Museum and participated in We Need to Talk, an exhibition in Jeddah organized by Edge of Arabia, a platform known for amplifying contemporary Saudi artists.

Art and Motherhood: A New Chapter

Since becoming a mother in 2020, Al Abdali’s artistic narrative has evolved. She has begun exploring themes of motherhood, weaving personal experiences into her broader exploration of identity and womanhood. Her art now captures the intimate and universal aspects of a woman’s journey, adding another layer to her already profound body of work.

A Legacy of Cultural Commentary

Sarah Mohanna Al Abdali’s work is a testament to the power of art as a catalyst for conversation. Whether through a spray-painted message on a crumbling wall or a meticulously crafted ceramic piece, her art speaks to the changing landscape of Saudi Arabia, its traditions, its transformations, and its future.

Her journey is a call to young Saudi artists to embrace their voices, challenge the status quo, and use their craft to shape the narratives of their time. As Saudi Arabia’s contemporary art scene continues to flourish, Al Abdali remains at the forefront, proving that art is not just about creation—it is about change.

Sarah Mohanna Al Abdali is more than an artist; she is a storyteller, a disruptor, and a cultural bridge. Her work reminds us that art can challenge, inspire, and redefine perspectives. For the next generation of Saudi creatives, she stands as proof that passion and purpose can transform not only walls but entire conversations.

As Saudi Arabia steps boldly into a new era of artistic expression, Sarah Mohanna Al Abdali’s legacy will continue to echo, reminding us all of the power of art to shape history.