Houssam Alloum

Home: Toronto, Ontario
Title: Arthur the King
Media: oil on canvas
Dimensions: 122 x 91 cm
Website: houssamalloum.com

ARTIST STATEMENT

In “Arthur the King,” I sought to explore the concept of royalty beyond its typical material trappings. Through the use of the tinfoil crown and the regal bearing of my friend, I aimed to convey the idea that being a king is not about external symbols of power and wealth but rather an internal feeling of confidence and self-assuredness.

As mentioned above, the feeling of being a king does not have to be supported by luxurious palaces, many servants, or expensive objects. It is an integral part of one’s consciousness that can be cultivated in every personal world, feeding on things that bring happiness and help develop a personality. In my portrayal of my friend as a king, I aim to capture this feeling in its purest state, the sense of self-mastery and inner strength that comes from living a life that is true to oneself.

With the help of hyperrealist tools, I was able to bring this idea to life clearly and vividly by creating a portrait that not only captures the physical likeness of my friend but also the imperceptible qualities that make him such an inspiring and admirable person. In “Arthur the King,” I invite people to contemplate what it means to be a king in their own lives and to strive for the kind of inner strength and confidence that comes from being true to oneself.

ARTIST BIOGRAPHY

Houssam Alloum was born in 1986 in a mountain village in Sweida, Southern Syria. His passion for painting and sculpture was evident during his school years and led him to pursue a B.A. in Fine Arts from Damascus University in 2011.

Due to the war in Syria, Houssam had to relocate several times, resulting in a unique artistic experience shaped by different cultures and environments.

In September 2018, Houssam moved to Gananoque, Ontario, Canada, with his family and brought along approximately 60 canvases at various stages of completion. His work has been exhibited in Dubai, Germany, The Netherlands, and Canada.
In November 2019, Houssam moved to Toronto, where he currently resides and continues to create hyperrealistic artwork.