Purificacion Garcia has always been known to support emerging talents and its regional Thinker Program welcomed a new chapter that highlights talents in Saudi Arabia.
Aimed to uplift and promote positivity through art, fashion and the concept of community, the fourth chapter of the Thinkers Program collaborated with three regional emerging creatives – Alaa Balkhy, Malak Masllati and Osamah Maher – where each was asked to create a piece of art inspired by the brand’s icons.
Below, we exclusively speak to Alaa Balkhy to discuss Purificacion Garcia through her lens, Arab representation in the region and her view on the emerging talent in the Middle East.
This year, Purificacion Garcia’s Thinker Program shines the spotlight on Saudi’s engaging creative talent. Can you tell us more about the talent you see there?
The change that’s happening here is lovely. Talent is abundant, and it makes me so happy to see talent supported. There’s still a long way to go for creatives, but we’re getting there.
In what way did you showcase your work through the lens of PG?
I was inspired by the brand’s icons to create a piece of work inspired by cubes and building blocks. With a message of optimism behind PG Optimismo, I wanted to take it back to a time of when I was a child, a time of pure optimism when you really had this pure emotion of being hopeful.
What inspired you from the Homenaje Trenzado Bag?
I got inspired by the squares and how they’re structured, how the bag folds, and how it stands simultaneously.
In your opinion, who is the Purificacion Garcia woman?
She is practical and fashionable. She likes to dress up and down and is always herself.
What is your biggest inspiration when it comes to your work?
Every day has its ups, downs, tears, laughs, and flowers, and I pass by the scents around me. But, primarily it’s between two places where I arrive at the other place. I see it with fresh eyes.
You’ve moved from one continent to another. How did it change your vision on fashion and your vision on the emerging talent here?
It’s interesting to see how people perceive fashion in different continents, countries, cities, and circles. I became more aware of cultural attire, in my vision, because I understood why things were worn a certain way or on certain occasions. I became more interested in traditional clothing and how they’re made who makes them. I think the region has so many talents; hopefully, we can see them grow and support them and see the industry grow
Can you shine the light on the need for Arab representation in the region?
We need people from the space to be part of the conversation happening in this space.
How would you say the fashion and art scene in the Middle East compares to the rest of the world?
I wouldn’t compare; I would say it is different in its own way. The Middle East is rich with culture which adds to the art scene bringing the best from all places within the region.
Also, read our exclusive interview with Chopard’s Caroline Scheufele.
