AJLAN GHAREM

Ajlan Gharem (b. 1985, Saudi Arabia) is a multidisciplinary artist who explores how Saudis articulate their culture. He is particularly interested in Saudi culture in a world of increasing globalization and constantly changing power dynamics. In a climate of rapid development across the Gulf, and a cautious Saudi response, Ajlan’s work focuses on the balance of power between the individual and the state and on his generation’s ability to create change.

Born in the conservative southern city of Khamis Mushayt in Saudi Arabia, Ajlan received an undergraduate degree in Mathematics at King Khalid University and continues to apply this analytical training to his art practice. He is now based in Riyadh where he works as a teacher of Mathematics at Al Sahabah Public School. He is a co-founder of Gharem Studio along with his brother, the artist Abdulnasser Gharem.

Ajlan Gharem has been announced as the winner of the sixth edition of the Jameel Prize 2021, the world’s leading award for contemporary art and design inspired by Islamic tradition. Gharem was chosen by an independent jury for his architectural installation Paradise Has Many Gates, which was commended for its boldness and ambition.