Early Life and Artistic Journey
Born in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Princess Reem pursued Arabic literature at King Abdulaziz University before following her passion for photography to Paris, where she studied at the Spéos Photographic Institute. Her education in Paris provided her with a solid foundation in photographic techniques and aesthetics, which she skillfully integrates with her cultural heritage.
Her schooling is from Manarat Jeddah Girls school. Actually her dad used to be owner of Manarat Jeddah /Manarat schools until it was sold to Maarif Education in 2003. Prince Muhamamd al Faisal was known for many innovative projects in Saudi Arabia and internationally.
He gradated from following colleges:
- Swarthone College-1961
- Menlo College(Bachelor of Science, Business Administration.)
- MA DMA Degree in Industrial Engineering from Stanford University CA. USA degree in Industrial Engineering from Stanford University CA. USA
https://www.swarthmore.edu/
https://www.menlo.edu/
Manarat Alumni wonder some times why we have the airs’? Well the below rankings of Menlo college will tell you.
Menlo college Rankings:
Forbes Rankings:
In Forbes' 2025 list of America's Top Colleges, Menlo College is ranked #459 overall and #243 among private colleges.
Forbes has also recognized Menlo College among the top 16% of colleges in the country, highlighting its strong return on investment and low student debt.
Niche Rankings:
Menlo College is ranked #4 out of 1,495 in "Most Diverse Colleges in America."
It holds the #102 position out of 821 in "Best Colleges for Accounting and Finance in America."
Additionally, it's ranked #156 out of 1,221 in "Best Colleges for Business in America."
The Princeton Review:
Menlo College has been recognized as a "Best in the West" college for 15 consecutive years, placing it among the top 25% of more than 2,500 U.S.-based four-year colleges. Menlo College
Global Recognition:
According to the Center for World University Rankings (CWUR), Menlo College ranks #45 globally for alumni holding executive positions at the world's largest companies, placing it in the top 3% among nearly 1,600 institutions considered. Menlo College+1Menlo College+1
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Salwa Zeidan Gallery+4National Gallery+4Wikipedia+4
Her work is deeply inspired by Islamic art philosophy and Arabic poetry, aiming to capture the divine presence in everyday life. She believes that "light is one of the many manifestations of God," and this belief is evident in her black-and-white photography that emphasizes the interplay of light and shadow. National Gallery+1Arab News+1THE SULTAN GALLERY
The Empty Quarter Gallery: A Vision Realized
In 2008, Princess Reem established The Empty Quarter Gallery in Dubai, marking the first photography-focused gallery in the region. This initiative was groundbreaking, providing a dedicated space for photographic art in the Middle East. The gallery showcases works that reflect the cultural and spiritual narratives of the region, aligning with Princess Reem's artistic vision.
A sister gallery was later opened in Jeddah in 2015, further extending her commitment to promoting photographic arts in Saudi Arabia. Xposure+3Wikipedia+3WikiArt+3
Artistic Themes and Notable Works
Princess Reem's photography often explores themes of spirituality, identity, and the human experience. Her black-and-white images are known for their depth and contemplative quality. One of her significant projects includes the documentation of the Hajj pilgrimage, offering a rare and profound perspective on this spiritual journey.
Arab News
Salwa Zeidan Gallery
Her exhibition "States of Light," displayed at Riyadh's L’Art Pur Foundation, delves into the intersection of existence, reality, and the divine. Through her lens, Princess Reem captures the essence of sacred sites and moments, inviting viewers to reflect on the spiritual dimensions of everyday life. Arab News+1Instagram+1
Global Recognition and Exhibitions
Princess Reem's work has been exhibited internationally, including in countries such as China, Egypt, France, Germany, Korea, the Netherlands, Palestine, Singapore, Spain, and the United States. Her photographs are part of permanent collections in institutions like the National Museum of Seoul and the Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts. Wikipedia+1Salwa Zeidan Gallery+1Salwa Zeidan Gallery+1National Gallery+1
In recognition of her contributions to the arts, she was awarded the French National Order of the Legion of Honour (Légion d’Honneur), highlighting her impact on cultural exchange and artistic innovation. National Gallery
Embracing Technological Innovation
Demonstrating adaptability and forward-thinking, Princess Reem has embraced digital platforms to expand the reach of her art. She launched a collection of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) featuring her historic Hajj photographs, merging traditional themes with contemporary technology to engage new audiences. Al Arabiya English
Summary
Princess Reem Al Faisal stands as a prominent figure in the art world, seamlessly blending her royal heritage with a profound artistic vision. Through her photography and gallery initiatives, she has fostered a deeper appreciation for the spiritual and cultural narratives of the Middle East, leaving an indelible mark on the global art landscape.
In the same subject a fellow Manartian(Manarat Jeddah) made the following documentary(the videos).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zH3NCYykEGI
(20023, National Geographic)
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References
https://www.salwazeidangallery.com
https://www.arabnews.com/art-culture/news/860856
https://www.arabnews.com/node/1847526/lifestyle
https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/Tiny-Menlo-College-is-like-home-for-Saudi-elite-6259396.php
MA Degree in Industrial Engineering from Stanford University CA. USA
