The relationship between hand and pen seems to be lost in the digital age of technology, but park local artist Nada Dalloul in front of a clean sheet of paper and magic will happen. “I’ve been drawing my whole life – my mother says the very first illustration I made was when I was as a young child, about three or four, when I sketched a rabbit thinking about a carrot.” Born and bred in Kuwait, Nada completed both her undergraduate and graduate degrees abroad, and since her return to the homeland from Montreal in 2007, the Palestinian Lebanese hybrid has had pieces of her work show up in discretion all over Kuwait – and discretion is key with this talented behind-the-scenes artist who doesn’t particularly enjoy drawing attention to herself.
Nada has designed prints, advertisements, illustrated graphic novels, coloring books, sold original paintings, published a comic strip, and has even displayed her paintings – described as masterpieces that embrace the depth, beauty and realities of human culture – in a casual gallery setting housed by a cafe in Beirut. “I like to make fingers fing” is her whimsical explanation for her artwork, where the human body is a recurring topic.
With a BFA in Animation and a Master’s Degree in Design with Learning and Teaching, Nada continues to quietly showcase her work within the pages of Kuwait, while teaching art at a local college. To her students, Nada is seen as a tough critic but also as an inspiration, helping them find their artistic voices to translate onto canvas.
With some coaxing, we’ve managed to drag Nada away from her sanctuary; an in-house studio consisting of her piano (a 20+ year skill that not many realize she has), easel, potted plant whimsically named “Robert” and Joni Mitchell records to play our favorite game – gather ye round, for this is definitely a rare occasion!
How would your mother describe you in one word?
Stubborn.
How would you describe your mother in one word?
Loud.
What is the most ridiculous question you’ve ever been asked?
“How do I use a ruler?”
What is the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done?
Moved to Montreal in 2002 with only 24 hours notice.
What is your theme song?
“007” (Shantytown) by Desmond Dekker.
What word in the English or Arabic language do you wish you had invented?
Apropos.
Where would you like to live? What is your dream retirement location?
Live: London.
Retirement: undecided (as long as there’s Internet and the beach.)
What is the first famous quote that comes to your mind?
“She generally gave herself very good advice, (though she very seldom followed it).” -Lewis Carroll.
What animal best describes the kind of partner you’d be interested in?
Seahorse or dog… a seadog. *Editor’s note: you mean a seal?
What do you miss about your childhood?
(Longer) Naps, illusions, and Judy Blume.
If you could change your name, what would you change it to?
I wouldn’t change my name.
How would you describe your handshake in one word?
Clumsy.
What is the toughest part of your character?
My pickiness.
Who is your favorite historical figure?
Roger Waters- historical figure in the making.
What in the world do you least desire?
Clubbing.
What do you think is lacking in the world, which if there was more of would make the world a better place?
Whimsy and genuineness.
Why do you think most girls/guys like you?
I’ve been told I’m charming.
Finish this sentence: “Happiness is a thing called…”
Uneventful Fridays.
