Ali Omar Ermes' artwork "Possession" showcases the letters seen, sheen, Ssadd and dhad in a tightly composed structure. The use of acrylic and ink on paper adds a rich texture to the piece.
The artwork is accompanied by a poem by Al Motannabbi, which explores the importance of intellect and logical thinking in distinguishing humans from beasts. The poem speaks to the idea that, without the ability to reason and think critically, even the least of beasts can have the upper hand over humans.
This 124cm x 114cm masterpiece, created in 1998, is now in the possession of a private collector. It serves as a reminder of the power of intellect and the importance of using our reasoning abilities to navigate the world around us. Al Motannabbi's other poems, such as "The Intoxication of Love," also touch on the theme of the human condition and the role of intellect in shaping our actions and decisions. In the poem, he writes, "Love is a sea without a shore, / Whose waves are infinite, / And I am a lover, not a swimmer, / Drowning in its depths." Here, Motannabbi speaks to the all-consuming nature of love and the role of our intellect in navigating its tumultuous waters.
This breathtaking piece by Ali Omar Ermes showcases the versatility and depth of the Arabic language through the use of a single stroke technique. Through this technique, Ermes is able to convey a range of emotions and expressions that range from the simplest and most direct to the most complex and nuanced.