Session 397: Embedding Personal Biography into Artistic Work

Artistic work may be an undisclosed biography of its creator. The artist or author might narrate their personal story without direct declaration, hiding behind the narrative, characters, or scenes. In this session, we will ask: Can a work be a parallel autobiography? How does a part of the creator's life seep into the fabric of a text, painting, or film? And is every creative work, at its core, a hidden mirror reflecting the creator's life? Perhaps we can reflect on this through the character of Don Quixote and wonder: isn't there in the madness of this idealistic knight something reminiscent of Miguel de Cervantes' own life? Then we move to the cinema screen where Charlie Chaplin appears to us in the spotlight, allowing us to glimpse traces of his life between his laughter and tears. Next, we arrive at Birdman, questioning whether the director is portraying his own anxieties and fears of decline. Even in The Sad Boy and the Owner, we cannot help but wonder: isn't the director's narration concealing his childhood and the haunting pursuit of his memories? A journey of thought and artistry, where we discover how biographies hide behind stories, and how art speaks about its creator even when claiming neutrality. Host: Raad Jaber Session fee: 20 Riyals in cash or via stcPay Please arrive ten minutes before the session We look forward to seeing you