I recently had the pleasure of visiting Samir Sayegh’s exhibition “ A journey” at the Saleh Barakat Gallery, where I also had the opportunity to meet Samir and take a brief tour of his remarkable art masterpieces.

At first glance, what stands out is his mastery over the Arabic letters and his exceptional ability to transcend contemporary art, creating works that feel timeless. There is a captivating simplicity in each piece, yet beneath that lies an intricate artistic complexity.

Each canvas is a rich tapestry woven from Sufism, abstraction, religion, and philosophy. Samir refines these profound themes into forms as simple as a single letter or word—each transformed into a masterpiece that resonates on multiple levels.

As you explore the diversity of styles throughout the exhibition, it becomes clear just how deeply Samir has contemplated the Arabic alphabet. His work feels like poetry: he flirts with the letter “A,” prays with the “B,” and through his dialogue, each letter tells its own story.

During the visit, Saleh Barakat recited some of Samir’s verses, which transported us into a world both intimate and expansive—a realm confined to the Arabic letters, yet infinitely rich in meaning, emotion, and depth.

When Samir was asked if he wishes to share anything, he smiled warmly, glanced around, and said simply, “I am screaming and praying on these walls.” This statement captured the essence of his art perfectly: every piece is both a powerful cry and a serene prayer, calmly resting on the gallery walls.

If you have the opportunity to visit this exhibition, I highly encourage you to immerse yourself in Samir Sayegh’s philosophy and artistry—an experience both profound and unforgettable.

Jihad Mikhael