Ahmed al Alawi, from Amerat, gifted with an ‘art of stone’, transforms rugged stones in Oman into timeless art and utensils that speak volumes about the cultural heritage of the sultanate

To revive the crafts of his forefathers and preserve Oman’s rich cultural heritage, Ahmed bin Abdullah Salim al Alawi, who hails from the Wilayat of Amerat – has transformed natural stones into exquisite works of art and cherished antiques.

Driven by a unique passion to preserve Oman’s cultural heritage, Ahmed found himself captivated by the whispers of ancient stones. From a young age, he felt a profound connection to the land and its heritage, a sentiment passed down through generations of his ancestors. Each piece he makes bears not only the marks of his craftsmanship but also the spirit of Oman’s history and traditions.

Ahmed’s journey into the world of craftsmanship began with simple observations and a deep respect for the natural world around him. As he wandered through rugged landscapes and ancient ruins, he discovered the timeless beauty hidden within the stones scattered across the Omani terrain.

In a chat with Muscat Daily, Ahmed said, “I began my journey with this craft in 2012, creating a diverse array of products from natural  rocks. These included pots, daggers, and a wide variety of medallions.”

He explained, “The craft of stone carving, one of Oman’s oldest professions, is now on the verge of extinction, with very few craftsmen still practising it. It is important that we preserve this craft of our forefathers before it slips into oblivion.”

Talking about challenges in his path, Ahmed said, “Obtaining the rocks involves extensive travel across numerous governorates and villages of the sultanate. It often means transporting heavy stones, whether from the mountains, valleys, or even the shores of the seas.

Also, convincing consumers/companies to buy these ‘art of stone’ products is not an easy task, and transforming raw stone into handmade products presents its own challenges. Crafting requires specialised tools and equipment to produce items efficiently and in sufficient quantities, as well as finding outlets for marketing and promoting your products.

“I produce about a thousand pieces per month in various sizes, though sculptures weighing 60kg or more require additional time and effort. I have converted part of my house into a workshop and with unwavering determination as well as support from my family, I have been able to conquer many such obstacles.

About the profession, he said, “For me, each creation is not just a masterpiece but a tribute to my roots, a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of my ancestors. Through my work, I hoped to inspire future generations to cherish and preserve their cultural identity, honouring the timeless bond between man and nature.

He further asserted that the aim of producing these art of stone products is not solely for financial gain but also to promote ancient Omani culture, attract tourists, and cultivate a deep appreciation for traditional crafts among Omani youth.

“Amidst acclaim and recognition, I have received numerous awards and commendations, including the Sultan Qaboos Award for Craft Excellence in 2019,” Ahmed said, calling upon Omanis, especially job seekers, to learn the crafts of their ancestors and get self employed with this fulfilling profession. He was also appreciative of the Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises Development and the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry for providing him avenues for marketing his products.

“I will continue to sculpt and shape the stones of Oman, breathing new life into ancient materials. By blending traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques, we can ensure that Oman’s heritage remains vibrant and cherished for generations to come,” he asserts.