Black is the Color of All Colors| Sudanow Magazine

Khartoum (Sudanow Magazine) – The moment a visitor sets foot in the exhibition of visual artist Mubarak Abbas Hamoudi in Virginia, USA, he find himself transported to the Sudanese countryside, witnessing the devastation wrought by war on these simple communities, whether they are herders or farmers.

Every viewer of the 38 paintings in the exhibition will find eyes full of tears, unable to comprehend it, by the powerful images that depict the reality of war, suffering, and violence endured by the Sudanese people, especially these days, and particularly the plight of women and children.

Recently, visual artist Mubarak Abbas Hamoudi received an award from the Council on Global Affairs in Harrisburg for his continuous artistic activity and the universal human, cultural, folkloric, and geographical dimensions of his work.

Regarding the awarding body, he explained that it is a leading non-profit organization dedicated to promoting global education and cultural exchange, headquartered in Washington, D.C.

Sarda continues, saying, “It is an affiliate of the American Councils on Global Affairs, leveraging similar organizations to amplify its impact. Its mission is to engage the people of its region in global issues, contributing to a more conscious and interconnected world.”

Artist Hammoudi adds that through these programs and events, he found the opportunity to showcase his artwork, which was recognized by the organization and simultaneously garnered admiration from exhibition visitors.

Regarding visual art, he says, “It is very old, as old as the Sudanese people themselves. It is also influenced by the rich local environment and the presence of Arab and African cultures in its regional character, which is reflected in the diverse tools used by visual artists. There are more than 51 local languages in Sudan.”

Artist Hammoudi considers rural areas to be the essence of Sudanese art because they remain untouched by the wave of modernization.

He added that Sudanese cities like Khartoum and others were influenced by imported European art movements such as Cubism and Abstraction, while rural areas of Sudan are imbued with African art, undeniably with an Arab touch.

Regarding Kushite art, he stated that it is an authentic Sudanese art form, unique and unparalleled anywhere else in the world. He believes that Kushite art is the origin of all modern art forms and styles.

Hammoudi also pointed out that Kushite art is used in various fields across African countries, including visual arts such as sculpture and ceramics. It is also used in the design of household items, wall decorations, and even weapons.

As for the reason behind his extensive use of black in most of his works, he explained that black is essentially the result of mixing the seven primary colors. Therefore, using black is like using all seven primary colors combined (the origin of all colors).

Regarding his academic qualifications, artist Mubarak Abbas explained that he graduated from the College of Fine Arts, which was established in the first half of the last century. He added that he has completed advanced courses both inside and outside Sudan on several occasions.

As an example of his advanced training, he completed two courses in color theory and textile printing in Germany. He considers these courses instrumental in refining his talent and enhancing his creativity, particularly in the use of calligraphy.

He has held several exhibitions both inside and outside Sudan, but recently he has focused on introducing the American community to Sudan and its rich cultural, ethnic, and civilizational diversity. He also aims to remind the American public that the Sudanese people are eager for assistance in ending the war that is destroying Sudan's great history.

Artist Mubarak Abbas looks forward to the day when Sudanese visual artists receive adequate support, including access to infrastructure such as an art studio, galleries, and art supplies, enabling them to fulfill their artistic role with ease.

He added, with a hint of sadness, that the lack of these resources has driven many artists to emigrate and create their artwork abroad. He explained that most of his paintings were created outside Sudan due to the unavailability of the necessary materials.

Visual artist Mubarak Abbas Hammoudi has lived between Sudan and the United States since the late 20th century. Born in North Kordofan State, he is a graduate of the College of Fine Arts at the Institute of Technological Colleges.

He has traveled extensively throughout Sudan, from north to south and east to west, enabling him to capture the essence of Sudanese people in their diverse environments through exquisite paintings that have attracted numerous visitors to his regular exhibitions in the United States, the most recent of which was held in Virginia.

In his concluding remarks to Sudanow magazine, Hammoudi urged Sudanese authorities to equip young people with the necessary tools and knowledge to become leaders in a world increasingly characterized by interconnectedness. He emphasized the importance of providing greater opportunities for youth to interact with influential international artists, writers, thinkers, diplomats, and political leaders.

Furthermore, Hammoudi called upon the Sudanese government to invest in Sudanese talent to revitalize the visual arts scene and restore it to its former glory. He stressed that this can only be achieved through genuine support that enhances the value of Sudanese artists and their participation in Arab, African, and European forums.

Artist Mubarak Abbas Hammoudi exemplifies the Sudanese artist who takes upon himself the responsibility of introducing the world to Sudan, its culture, and its heritage. We hope his call will find a receptive audience among the relevant authorities and that he will contribute to supporting Sudanese visual arts and elevating their international standing.

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