Exploring Faces and Culture: Hervé Alexandre’s Artistic Journey in Oman

French artist Hervé Alexandre recently completed a ten-day art residency at In-Art Residency, located in the Al Mawaleh Complex in the suburbs of Muscat, Oman. The Exploring Faces and Culture: Hervé Alexandre’s Artistic Journey in Oman, held in September and October 2025, was hosted by Iranian artist Saba Imani, providing a space for creative exchange, cultural immersion, and artistic reflection.

During his stay, Alexandre created 25 new portraits of Omani people, which were later presented in a well-received Open Studio exhibition at the residency. His distinctive technique—acrylic on local newspapers—captured the attention of visitors and art enthusiasts. “It was not easy at the beginning to find local newspapers,” the artist shared, “but once I did, the material became an integral part of the story behind each portrait.” In addition to his newspaper-based works, Alexandre also painted with watercolors and acrylics on paper and local advertisements, exploring both the diversity of medium and texture.

For Alexandre, Oman proved to be a deeply inspiring environment. The vibrant Mutrah souk, the fish market in Muscat, and the animal market in Nizwa, the country’s old capital, all served as visual and emotional catalysts for his creative process. “Oman is a unique country balanced between modernity and cultural preservation,” he explained. “This harmony is one of the main drivers of my art.”

Beyond creation, the residency also offered a chance for meaningful encounters. Alexandre engaged with local and international artists, exchanging ideas and perspectives that enriched the experience. The Open Studio exhibition attracted numerous visitors and received highly positive feedback, particularly for its innovative use of local media and the authenticity of the portraits.

The success of the residency will continue with an extended exhibition of Alexandre’s works at the French Omani Cultural Center near the Royal Opera House in Muscat. The show, planned to run for at least three weeks by the end of 2025, will give new audiences an opportunity to explore Alexandre’s artistic interpretation of Oman’s people and culture.

Through his residency, Hervé Alexandre not only produced a significant body of work but also built a bridge between art and cultural understanding, leaving an indelible mark on both the local art community and his own creative journey.

Source and photo: Hervé Alexandre