I began by studying Fine Art, but then switched to Architecture to secure a more promising future. Over the years, my interest in the visual arts and art history has grown steadily.
What is your background?
I started out studying Fine Art, then switched to Architecture to secure a more promising future. Over the years, my interest in the visual arts and art history grew steadily.
At the end of my studies, during an internship where I discovered the reality of the architectural profession, I realised that this was not at all what I wanted to do with my life. After my marriage, I ended up following my husband and found myself in the United Arab Emirates. Two years later, I began specialised coaching for expatriate women to find my voice and create a project that reflected who I am.
Art then became a natural part of my life. It was my area of brilliance. I retreated into my own world for three years, during which I produced several paintings. I then decided to exhibit my work to the general public. I quickly realised, to my great delight, that my works were attracting attention and admiration. I then continued to produce more, refining my artistic style and holding a series of exhibitions over the years right up to the present day, where I am becoming increasingly well-known in the art scene in Dubai.
How would you describe your artistic style and what makes it unique?
My training as an architect has greatly influenced my artistic style. I create and conceptualise my paintings with the same precision that an architect employs when drawing up the plans for a house.
Geometric art is omnipresent in my works. I often incorporate calligraphy as well, blending it with the other elements of the canvas to create harmonious and aesthetically original compositions.
Can you tell us about a piece that is particularly close to your heart and explain how it came about?
The piece closest to my heart is the one I created for my first exhibition to mark the United Arab Emirates’ National Day. It took a great deal of research and sketching to fully immerse myself in the local culture and heritage. I ended up creating a highly complex abstract composition incorporating the name of each Emirate, whilst using cubic Kufic calligraphy mixed with traditional motifs to highlight Emirati craftsmanship. I used the colours of the flag to add contrast to my composition. The design and creation of the piece took me over 80 hours – a long-haul project that really put me through the mill! Especially as, in the end, I had to paint for 36 hours straight to finish the piece on time. This painting eventually won a prize in a competition. It marked a turning point in my life as an artist.
What inspires you?
My sources of inspiration are varied, but I think what inspires me most are traditional arts and crafts, which I like to highlight in my paintings.
I appreciate the richness of colours, shapes and textures found in carpets, ceramic tiles, pottery, embroidery on traditional clothing, and so on…
Do you incorporate new technologies into your creative process?
Yes, especially recently, I’ve been designing my works using my tablet on Procreate. This allows me to achieve a better finish and makes the subsequent hand-finishing easier.
Do you have an artistic project you’re currently working on that you can share with us?
I’m currently working on over a hundred illustrations for a children’s book. Although it’s quite a challenge, I’m really enjoying this new experience—a wonderful opportunity that will allow me to add another string to my bow.
How would you like your art to impact your audience or society in general?
Behind every painting I create, there is a different message or idea. I tackle a variety of themes such as heritage protection, environmental conservation and the risks of new technologies. When I conceive a piece, it is essential to me that it is original and one-of-a-kind, so that it can engage the public even more, encouraging them to interact with it and discover the story behind it.
What advice would you give to young artists who aspire to follow in your footsteps?
I would advise them to arm themselves with patience and perseverance. It takes time to discover one’s artistic world. One mustn’t hesitate to try new things and step outside one’s comfort zone. But the most important thing is to enjoy the creative process and appreciate this wonderful journey where you constantly rediscover and reinvent yourself through your art.