Malak Al-Saleh
A Brush with Heritage, One Zeer at a Time
By Alhanouf Mohammed Alrowaili
In the heart of Riyadh, where tradition and modernity dance in delicate balance, a quiet yet powerful artistic revival is unfolding. Leading this movement is Malak Al-Saleh, a Saudi artist whose brush transforms heritage into living beauty. Through her brand, Sunflower Studio, Malak redefines how art, culture, and everyday objects intertwine. Her canvas extends beyond paper and fabric to clay, glass, and leather. Yet, her most symbolic muse remains the Zeer, a traditional clay water pot.
A Lifelong Journey with Art
Malak’s connection to art began long before Sunflower Studio existed. Creativity was woven into her childhood, education, and identity. Though she studied science at King Saud University, her passion for drawing and painting never waned. What started as personal expression turned commercial in 2016, when friends and family began requesting personalized portraits, launching her artistic venture.
The Moment Everything Changed
The idea to merge her art with traditional objects came during the holy month of Ramadan. Malak was asked to paint on clay cups and Zeers as gifts. What began as a seasonal project became a revelation: the Zeer was more than a water vessel, it was a vessel for storytelling. From that moment on, the Zeer’s earthy surface transformed into a canvas for palm trees, horses, camels, and floral motifs inspired by Saudi Arabia’s landscapes and heritage. Each brushstroke added layers of history, memory, and meaning.
The Zeer: A Vessel of Culture and Health
For centuries, the Zeer has been central to daily life across the Arab world. Made from porous clay, it cools water naturally through evaporation, a sustainable, electricity-free process passed down through generations. In the Hijaz region, especially in the revered cities of Makkah Al-Mukarramah and Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, Turbah-made Zeers are prized for their quality. Beyond practicality, the Zeer symbolizes resourcefulness, resilience, and a connection to the earth. Drinking from it engages the senses, the cool water, the scent of clay, offering a grounding experience that echoes ancient traditions. Scientifically, as water interacts with minerals in the clay, it becomes slightly more alkaline, potentially improving hydration and digestion. In a world dominated by plastic bottles and filters, the Zeer quietly reminds us of nature’s pure and simple ways.
Art with a Purpose
As Malak’s reputation grew, so did her product range. She began painting coffee mugs, leather bags, heating pads, and more, each piece celebrating heritage and nature. Every item from Sunflower Studio is hand-painted, often customized to the buyer’s wishes. Her work honors local culture with recurring themes that reflect Saudi identity and environment. Still, the Zeer remains her signature medium, not just a favorite object, but a message.
A Studio Rooted in Identity
The name Sunflower was chosen thoughtfully. Malak relates to the flower’s bold size, radiant color, and its instinct to follow the light. Like the sunflower, her art seeks brightness, illuminating what is often overlooked and bringing warmth into homes and hearts. Her creations have attracted attention beyond Saudi Arabia, reaching neighboring Gulf countries, Iraq, and Libya. Clients see in her work a bridge between tradition and modern taste, a refreshing alternative to mass-produced decor.
Looking to the Future
Malak dreams of growing Sunflower Studio into more than a brand; it’s a vision for an artistic landmark and tourist destination. She imagines a space where visitors from around the world can experience Saudi craftsmanship, learn its history, and take home hand-painted pieces filled with love. She also welcomes collaborations with local brands, galleries, and artists, believing creativity flourishes best when shared.
A Legacy of Light and Clay
What sets Malak apart isn’t just her technique or aesthetic, but her perspective. Where others see a simple water pot, she sees identity waiting to be expressed. Where others see everyday objects, she sees blank canvases ready for transformation. At a time when culture risks dilution by convenience, artists like Malak do more than preserve; they reimagine the past. Her story is one of earth and pigment, heritage and innovation, silence and color. And through it all, she continues to follow the light, just like the sunflower that inspired her.
