IN SHORT

For Abdulla Al-Awadi, art serves to state a point of view; to start a dialogue; to give back to the community—all goals that are constant in his work as both artist and teacher. “Push yourself to the limit of your creativity and sharpen your tools,” he advises the youth. “Work is sacred—it’s your responsibility to use your talent.” Not one to shy away from his own advice, Abdulla echoes this view in his personal dream: “I want to be known for bringing forth the true beauty of Islam and of the Arabic language. I know this is too much for me to do, but if I manage to be part of this task, I’ll be in heaven!”