On Monday 9 November 2026, Sultan Qaboos University marked the 40th anniversary of its opening at a ceremony presided over by His Highness Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham Al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs. As part of the celebrations, Nofal bin Hamad Al-Shuaili, a final-year Art Education student at the College of Education, presented him with an oil painting titled ‘A Legacy of Sultans’.
The work, which measures 166.5 × 94.5 cm, brings together six figures from different periods of Omani history: Imam Ahmed bin Said, Sultan Said bin Sultan, Sultan Faisal bin Turki, Sultan Qaboos bin Said, Sultan Haitham bin Tarik and Sayyid Theyazin himself. It is the result of efforts of research, sketching and painting.
In this dialogue, Nofal talks about the idea behind the painting, the work that went into it, and what the experience has meant to him.
When did you discover your passion for painting, and what do you usually paint?
I discovered my passion for painting approximately ten years ago. Since then, I have continuously sought to develop my talent and refine my artistic skills by participating in art workshops and exhibitions. These experiences have played an important role in strengthening my motivation to learn, explore, and grow as an artist.
I have often drawn inspiration from Oman’s natural landscapes, particularly its mountains and distinctive geographical features. Over time, however, I developed a stronger interest in portrait painting, which became my primary artistic focus. Among the subjects I am most passionate about portraying are the Sultans of Oman.
How did the idea for the painting begin?
The idea for this painting originated from my desire to document six significant periods in Omani history through a single artwork. My vision was to bring together historical figures, symbols, and visual elements that tell the stories associated with each of the Sultans portrayed in the painting.
The project initially began as a personal initiative. However, it later received generous support and encouragement from the officials and organisers of SQU’s 40th anniversary celebrations, particularly His Highness Sayyid Dr Fahad bin Al-Julanda bin Majid Al Said, the Vice-Chancellor.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation to His Highness for his continued support and commitment to empowering students and providing them with opportunities to showcase their creativity and leave a meaningful mark on university events and occasions.
Could you describe the work for readers who have not seen it?
The painting depicts an artistic scene inspired by the architectural features of several prominent royal landmarks in Oman, including the Royal Opera House Muscat and the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. These architectural elements reflect the distinctive character of Omani architecture.
The artwork features six prominent figures representing different periods of Oman’s history, beginning with the founding Imam, Ahmed bin Said, followed by Sultan Said bin Sultan and Sultan Faisal bin Turki.
At the heart of the composition, I portrayed Sultan Qaboos bin Said, may he rest in peace, alongside His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik in the foreground. To His Majesty’s right stands His Highness Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham Al Said.
Through this composition, I sought to highlight the historical continuity of Oman and connect different chapters of its history within a single artistic scene.
Why did you bring these figures together, and what message do you hope viewers take away?
I specifically selected these figures because they represent pivotal moments and significant transitions in Omani history. Each played an important role in shaping the nation’s identity and development throughout different historical periods.
By bringing these figures together in one composition, I wanted to convey the message that history does not exist exclusively within the pages of books and written references. Visual art can also serve as a powerful means of documenting history and communicating its stories.
I believe a painting can become a visual narrative that brings historical events to life through the language of colour, composition, and artistic expression.
Do the colours, light or setting carry a special meaning?
Yes, I intentionally incorporated artistic elements that reflect Omani identity and heritage.
The earthy colours used throughout the painting were inspired by the natural tones of traditional Omani forts and castles, which embody the country’s rich history and architectural authenticity.
Lighting also plays an important role in the composition. I carefully used it to direct the viewer’s attention towards specific details and to highlight the central figures positioned in the foreground.
As for the setting, its geometric and architectural features were inspired by Omani royal landmarks, creating visual harmony between the historical figures and the distinctive architectural identity of the Sultanate.
How did you research the figures and capture each likeness?
Before beginning the painting, I undertook an extensive research process that lasted approximately four months. During this period, I carefully examined reliable Omani historical sources and references documenting the different historical eras and the significant events associated with each figure represented in the artwork.
One of the most valuable references I consulted was the Omani Encyclopedia, which provided important historical information that helped shape the concept and strengthen its historical accuracy.
Alongside this historical research, I devoted considerable attention to studying the facial features and visual characteristics of each figure. My aim was to portray them in a manner that respected their historical identity and significance within the overall composition.
Throughout this process, I sought to maintain a balance between the accuracy of each portrait and the broader artistic message of the painting.
How did you make the painting, and which stage was the most demanding?
The painting was created using oil paints on canvas and measures 166.5 × 94.5 cm.
The initial stage, which involved developing the concept, exploring visual ideas, and preparing preliminary sketches, took approximately three to four months. This was followed by another four months dedicated to painting and completing the final artwork.
In fact, I thoroughly enjoyed every stage of the creative process and did not encounter any major difficulties during its execution. This was largely due to my strong personal connection to the concept and my passion for bringing the artwork to life.
The excitement of seeing the final result continually motivated me to give my best throughout the entire process.
What was it like to present the painting to His Highness Sayyid Theyazin?
It was a tremendous honour to stand before His Highness Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham Al Said and personally present this artwork to him. It was truly an exceptional moment that I will always cherish.
What made the experience even more meaningful was the kind and encouraging words His Highness shared with me, along with his appreciation for the concept and execution of the painting.
His Highness’s engagement with the artwork, his interest in its details, and his praise filled me with immense pride and gratitude.
This recognition had a profound impact on me and provided tremendous motivation to continue my artistic journey and create more works that reflect Oman’s rich history and cultural identity.
What did taking part in the anniversary mean to you, and what does SQU mean to you?
Participating in this remarkable occasion was a source of immense pride and honour. It will forever remain one of the most memorable experiences of my life, a day I will cherish for as long as I live because of the joy, pride, and gratitude it brought me.
SQU represents a defining chapter in my life. Throughout my time at the university, I have been fortunate to benefit from valuable opportunities that have helped me develop my abilities and refine my artistic talent.
The university provides an inspiring and supportive environment that encourages creativity, empowers students, and allows them to transform their ideas into meaningful achievements.
It is a great honour to belong to this distinguished academic institution, which has completed four decades of excellence and contribution to the development of generations of talented and capable Omanis across various fields.
How have your classmates, lecturers and family reacted?
The reactions of my classmates, lecturers, and family members were extremely positive, and I was delighted by the happiness, pride, and appreciation they expressed towards this achievement.
Their encouraging words and moral support have been a tremendous source of motivation for me to work even harder, continue developing my artistic abilities, and strive towards further achievements through which I can contribute to my university, SQU, and, above all, my beloved country, the Sultanate of Oman.
Do you know where the painting will be displayed?
At present, I do not have specific information regarding where the painting will be displayed. However, I am confident that it will be given a place befitting the stature of the person to whom I had the honour of presenting it, His Highness Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham Al Said.
How has this experience shaped your goals as an artist and a student?
This experience has had a profound impact on me. It has renewed my passion for art, strengthened my future ambitions, and given me additional motivation to continue developing myself and pursuing further achievements.
It has also reinforced my determination to enhance both my artistic and academic abilities while making the most of opportunities and experiences that broaden my knowledge and develop my skills.
The impact of this experience extends beyond my artistic and academic pursuits, positively influencing my aspirations for the future as a whole.
I hope this achievement will serve as a starting point for greater creativity and excellence, inspiring me to produce meaningful artworks that reflect my pride in Omani identity and heritage.
What would you say to students with a talent they have not yet shared?
My message to every student who possesses a talent or creative ability is not to hesitate to share it with others and to continuously work towards developing it.
I encourage them to remain dedicated, persevere, refine their skills, and take full advantage of the opportunities available to them.
The Sultanate of Oman offers numerous opportunities and initiatives that support ambitious young Omanis, providing them with platforms to showcase their creativity and achieve their aspirations.
I firmly believe that talent, when combined with dedication, perseverance, and confidence in one’s abilities, can lead to meaningful achievements that bring pride to individuals and enable them to contribute positively to their country.
Is there anything you would like to say to the SQU community?
I would like to extend my deepest gratitude and sincere appreciation to everyone involved in organising SQU’s 40th anniversary celebrations, including university leaders, officials, administrators, academics, technical staff, and students, for their tremendous efforts in making this exceptional occasion a success.
I would especially like to express my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to His Highness the Vice-Chancellor for his continued support, encouragement, and commitment to empowering talented students and providing them with opportunities to express their creativity and achieve excellence.
Finally, I pray that Allah continues to bless the Sultanate of Oman with peace, stability, and prosperity, and grants us all the ability to serve our beloved nation and contribute to its continued progress and development.