Six regional artists have set out to reframe the conversation around road traffic accidents, by depicting the raw emotions of accident victims in their latest works. Drawing inspiration straight from the source, OnStar, the pioneering in-vehicle safety and security technology from General Motors, offered the talent access to powerful accident visuals and unedited emergency calls, which reflect in the thought-provoking pieces.
The highly individualistic artworks spanning traditional paint, sequential, abstract and digitally designed styles, transcend the norm in the road safety space, inviting viewers to sit up, take notice and ultimately incite discourse on this important subject. Personality shines through the works, as artists – Hamad Al Humaidhan, Kristel Bechara, Galina Gorlova, Simon Kazanjian, Sumayyah Al Suwaidi and Asma Al Remeithi - were taken on an emotional journey through audio and visual cues, allowing them to reflect their own responses to the stimulus. From shock and panic to unhindered emotion, the exploration of the subject, saw the artists push past the usual unease around the subject matter, evoking instead understanding and empathy for those affected.
Following the multisensory inspiration, the artists were keen to disrupt the usually subdued context in which accidents are discussed, instead driving awareness towards both the incidents themselves and the immediate aftermath. By tapping into the emotional undercurrent of their subject matter, the works aim to invite viewers to explore a new perspective on the topic. Revealed at Infinity des Lumières, the works captivated audiences, as they delved into the artist’s exploration of the road safety space.
Hamad Al Humaidhan, one of the artists involved shared, “Road safety is a serious topic. I know art is strong and loud, so hopefully a painting of mine can raise awareness and bring to light the consequences of reckless driving”.
The initiative stems from OnStar’s purpose to support in the case of the unplanned, through lifesaving in-vehicle technology that instantly connect drivers to the right people and resources to secure aid. Placing safety at the forefront, the built-in service sought out to spark conversation around safety on the road, before incidents take place, calling on viewers to reflect on their road behaviors and experiences.
