Deyaa Rambo: The Trailblazer of Graffiti Art in Saudi Arabia

Deyaa Rambo, also known by his artistic moniker DeyaaOne, is a key figure in the evolution of graffiti art in Saudi Arabia. Starting in a country where street art was largely unfamiliar and even considered rebellious, Deyaa's work has helped transform graffiti into a recognized and celebrated form of artistic expression. His journey from a self-taught artist to an internationally recognized name mirrors the cultural shifts in the Kingdom, especially in the arts sector, where creativity is increasingly being embraced. Through his contributions, Deyaa has not only left his mark on Saudi Arabia but also brought the country’s underground art scene into the global spotlight.

Early Life and Artistic Roots

Born into a creative family in Jeddah, Deyaa grew up in an environment that nurtured his love for art. His father, Waleed Rambo, a renowned fine artist and art teacher, encouraged Deyaa to explore his creative side. This early exposure to art gave Deyaa a strong foundation, but it was not until the mid-2000s that he found his true passion: graffiti. In 2005, Jeddah held its first graffiti competition, which sparked Deyaa's interest in street art. The competition opened his eyes to the raw and expressive nature of graffiti, which allowed him to break free from traditional artistic norms and explore new forms of visual communication.

Founding Dhad Store

Deyaa’s passion for graffiti led him to co-found Dhad Store in 2011, alongside Abdulaziz Hassan and Abdallah. As the first graffiti supply store in Saudi Arabia, Dhad Store became a vital hub for Saudi street artists, providing them with the tools and materials they needed to express themselves. The store’s name, "Dhad," reflects the team's dedication to Arab culture, paying tribute to the unique sounds of the Arabic language. Dhad Store became more than just a business—it was a symbol of the growing graffiti movement in Saudi Arabia, helping to cultivate a thriving community of artists who shared Deyaa’s vision of merging Arabic culture with global street art.

Overcoming Cultural Challenges

Despite his growing success, Deyaa and his peers faced significant challenges in gaining acceptance for graffiti as a legitimate art form in Saudi Arabia. Graffiti was often viewed as vandalism or rebellious behavior, especially in a region where public space was traditionally not considered a canvas for artistic expression. Deyaa worked tirelessly to change these perceptions, promoting graffiti as an art form that could communicate important social messages and reflect the evolving culture of the Kingdom. His determination to educate the public about the value of graffiti helped shift attitudes, slowly transforming the street art scene into a respected and celebrated part of Saudi culture.

International Recognition

Deyaa’s innovative approach to graffiti did not go unnoticed. His participation in international art projects like Tourparis13 in France and Djerbahood in Tunisia opened the door for collaborations with renowned graffiti artists from around the world, such as Hombre and Rusl. Through these platforms, Deyaa was able to showcase his distinctive style, which blends traditional Arab motifs with modern graffiti techniques. His art has been displayed in numerous countries, including Germany, Morocco, and Malaysia, cementing his status as a pioneer of graffiti in the Gulf region. His international projects not only expanded his personal artistic reach but also introduced the world to Saudi Arabia’s emerging graffiti scene.

Artistic Style and Philosophy

Deyaa’s graffiti style is a reflection of his deep connection to his Arab heritage. One of his most notable works, titled Harwala (Jogging), serves as a metaphor for Saudi Arabia’s cultural evolution—moving forward at a steady pace while remaining deeply rooted in tradition.

His art often incorporates calligraphy, Arabic typography, and traditional designs, creating a fusion of old and new that speaks to the transformation of Saudi society. Deyaa believes that graffiti is a powerful tool for communicating with the public, allowing artists to share messages in an open and accessible way, outside the confines of museums and galleries.

Bridging Cultures Through Art

One of Deyaa’s goals is to use graffiti as a bridge between cultures. He views street art as a form of cultural exchange, a way for local and international artists to come together and collaborate on projects that transcend borders. Through his work, Deyaa aims to highlight the richness of Saudi culture while also integrating global influences into his art. This vision has led him to work on projects that celebrate Arab identity while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of modern street art. By participating in festivals like Shift22, which bring together graffiti artists from around the world, Deyaa continues to foster a sense of global artistic community.

Legacy and Impact on Saudi Arabia

Deyaa’s influence on the Saudi graffiti scene is immeasurable. Through his leadership, perseverance, and creative vision, he has helped redefine public art in the Kingdom. Graffiti, once considered a form of rebellion, is now embraced as a means of creative expression. Today, festivals like Shift22 and others celebrate street art as an integral part of Saudi Arabia’s cultural transformation. Deyaa’s journey from a self-taught artist to a globally recognized pioneer reflects the broader changes happening in Saudi society, where the arts are becoming a driving force for innovation and progress.

Conclusion

Deyaa Rambo’s work in the graffiti scene has not only brought global attention to Saudi Arabia’s growing artistic movement, but it has also paved the way for a new generation of Saudi artists to express themselves freely. By blending traditional Arab elements with contemporary street art, Deyaa has created a unique style that resonates with audiences both locally and internationally. His contributions to the arts have played a crucial role in shaping Saudi Arabia’s creative landscape, making him a true pioneer of graffiti in the region.