The eL Seed Project – ATLANTA
In honor of National Arab American Heritage Month (April 2024) and Alif Institute’s 20th Anniversary, we invited internationally acclaimed artist eL Seed to visit Atlanta. In addition to speaking at our Gala, and students at SCAD and Clarkston High School, eL Seed created the first two Arabic murals in the metro-Atlanta area. He also created friendships and an impact that will last a lifetime. Alif would like to give special thanks to:
- The City of Chamblee – Mayor Brian Mock and his staff for their gracious invitation, hospitality, and passion for public art.
- The City of Clarkston – Mayor Beverly Burks and her staff for making us all feel like Clarkston was our home.
- Dekalb County – The Dekalb County Public Library and the staff of the Clarkston Public Library for enthusiastically embracing our proposal to paint a public mural. Sincere thanks also go out to Dekalb County Commissioners Steve Bradshaw, Robert Patrick, Michelle Long Spears, and especially Ted Terry for expediting approval of the mural. We would also like to acknowledge the help of James Tsismanakis and the Discover DeKalb Convention & Visitors Bureau.
The City of Chamblee
“Walls work both ways.”
After meeting with Chamblee officials and selecting the site for his mural, eL Seed did his research about the City of Chamblee. Inspired by conversations with Mayor Mock, he found a quote that spoke to him from Diana Palmer, a Chamblee-born author who became a New York Times best selling author:
“Walls work both ways. They keep people out…but they keep people in, too.”
The City of Clarkston
“Genius everywhere is one.”
In the diverse mosaic of Clarkston, where cultures converge and stories intertwine, eL Seed’s art speaks a universal truth depicting the words of Amin Rihanni: ‘Genius everywhere is one.’
This masterpiece celebrates the richness of diversity, reminding us that each individual, regardless of origin, brings unique talents and perspectives that enrich our collective human experience. Clarkston, a beacon of hope and inclusivity, stands as a testament to the invaluable contributions of every member of our global family.
The eL Seed Project – Atlanta!
Alif Institute is proud to announce its partnership with internationally acclaimed artist, eL Seed to share our rich Arab heritage with Metro Atlanta through a beautiful community mural and several presentations with local institutions.
eL Seed uses Arabic calligraphy and a distinctive style to spread messages of peace, unity and to underline the commonalities of human existence. We approached eL Seed because his artwork, found all over the world, reflects our own mission as it consistently aims at unifying communities and redressing stereotypes.
In a time where the definition of humanity has become diluted and selective, a project like this is needed most to put into action our mission to foster the understanding and appreciation of Arab cultures. It further establishes our presence as a member of this diverse and cosmopolitan community, positively raising the profile of the Arab American community.
What better way to celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month than with profoundly beautiful artwork that celebrates Arab heritage here in our own backyard, for all to enjoy!
Stay tuned for more information about
eL Seed’s Schedule in Atlanta
In addition to creating a public mural, eL Seed will give presentations at Alif Institute and at local universities and organizations.
Stay tuned for more details!