In our latest DeKalb Talks Tourism episode, we had the pleasure of hosting French Tunisian artist eL Seed. Known for his vibrant Arabic calligraphy, eL Seed's art bridges cultures and communities, making him an ideal guest to discuss the intersection of art, culture, and tourism.
This episode also featured Commissioner Ted Terry, who represents Super District 6, which includes Clarkston, the location of eL Seed's recent pieces. Commissioner Terry shared insights on the impact of public art in the community and how initiatives like eL Seed's murals contribute to the cultural and economic vitality of the area.
We were also joined by Mouna Abdulhamid, Executive Director of the Alif Institute, which teamed up with eL Seed to bring this project to Commissioner Terry. Mouna discussed the Alif Institute's role in fostering cultural exchange and promoting understanding through art and education.
eL Seed shared stories of his global projects, including recent work in DeKalb. His unique blend of Arabic calligraphy and graffiti, known as calligraffiti, creates visually stunning pieces that promote peace and unity. Art plays a crucial role in cultural tourism, and eL Seed’s murals have become landmarks, attracting visitors, and engaging local communities. His approach emphasizes integrating art into urban landscapes to create a sense of place and belonging.
eL Seed involves local communities in his work, ensuring the art reflects their stories and aspirations. This collaborative process fosters community pride and ownership. His insights highlight how public art can enhance DeKalb's appeal as a cultural destination. We encourage everyone to visit his latest installation and explore DeKalb's rich tapestry of art and culture.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to eL Seed, Commissioner Ted Terry, and Mouna Abdulhamid for sharing their time, insights, and passion with us. If you want to hear more from these incredible guests, please tune in to the full episode of DeKalb Talks Tourism, available now on our website and major podcast platforms.
Explore eL Seed's Recent Creations
Are you wanting to see eL Seed's recent creations? You can find them at the following locations:
Clarkston
Chamblee (right behind Gus's World-Famous Fried Chicken building)