ARTISTS

Khaled Makshoush

Khaled Makshoush, a highly acclaimed digital artist from Riyadh, has gained recognition for his expertise in pixel art, characterized by the deliberate use of individual pixels, often small in size, resulting in a distinctive retro aesthetic in the 1980s and 1990s, particularly in the video game industry.

Driven by this movement that has been gaining interest for a few years, Khaled creates atmospheric digital paintings that delve into the complex interplay between emotions and space, offering both GIFs and still images in his diverse artistic repertoire. Khaled's artistic process is guided by his exploration of diverse landscapes in the contemporary world tool. He is intrigued by the juxtaposition of urban environments and natural beauty, using Google StreetView, which serve as perpetual sources of inspiration.

A noteworthy collaboration between Khaled and Asprey Studio involves the creation of artwork paying homage to the vibrant city of London. Despite the inherent limitations of the pixel art medium, Khaled effectively captures the spirit of the city, its iconic landmarks, and its distinctive atmosphere. His pixel art transports viewers beyond the realm of reality, offering them an immersive experience within his visually captivating worlds.

Through his skilful manipulation of pixels and a work around colours, shapes and patterns, he invites viewers to transcend the confines of reality and embark on a transformative visual journey that stirs their emotions and leaves a lasting impression.

Saudi artist’s video-game-inspired work grabs global attention