Whether you’ve gone through his colorful Instagram profile, heard of him by word-of mouth, or you’ve always been intrigued by his ability to tell stories with each character he illustrates, Ahmed Al-Refaie continues to create inimitable artworks in K-town. He thrives on not only creating impeccable illustrations, but also in giving back to the rest of the local community.
Ahmed’s passion for illustration began at the age of ten, by watching cartoons and tracing the outlines of coloring books. He has always enjoyed the notion of creating, and 23 years later, he’s still on that same path. As he says, “I used to create art with real basic stuff. I would draw pirates, comic book heroes, they were interesting but I didn’t feel passionate about them. The moment I added storytelling to the process, this is when everything changed.”
Be it by introducing characters with a captivating story, or collaborating with local businesses and global companies such as Snapchat to visually commemorate key regional celebrations like Eid Aladha, as well as the official Saudi and Omani national days. So far, Ahmed’s artistic footprint has clearly made an impact. He essentially works with these five core elements and applies them to any project he takes on; Idea, title, color, drawing technique, goal/message.
These “ingredients”, as he calls them, are important elements that he would keep in mind throughout the process of creating art. These days, every creative is well aware that practice is key, so ensuring that these particular ingredients are included in their artistic process will surely ease the journey towards better understanding the effects of color, for example. In fact, these key principles can be applied to any artistic thought process.
We also noticed that there’s always an element of surprise in Ahmed’s illustrations, whether it was experimenting with a different color or how he shades a particular piece of artwork, he strives on challenging himself with new techniques and different approaches, but also keeping simplicity as the main principle. He says, “When we’re designing or illustrating, we always think that we have to add more and more, but technically and artistically speaking, that’s not really what makes an artwork great, it’s the five ingredients that I mentioned earlier.”
Ahmed enjoys giving back to the community through workshops and art talks. That’s why he decided to start “Nag Nega” on his Instagram page, which is a one minute explanatory video series that discuss topics regarding illustration as well as design. He highlights tricks and tips on how to improve your perspective when it comes to design. Interestingly enough, these videos are the most shared content from his page, because they are that informative. It’s a great method to start a conversation on the field of illustration, since it’s taking a shift towards branding and the role of packaging, rather than simply focusing on the local art scene.
The illustrator and graphic designer occasionally taps into controversial topics, but, as he tells us, “I don’t like my account to be a political statement, it’s more of a form of expression. No matter what is going through my mind or relevant to certain events.” Regardless of what the artwork displays, it remains a challenge that Ahmed is willing to take on instead of falling into a repetitive pattern. Plus, that’s where the fun truly lies. People used to look down on illustrations in general, but because of creatives like Ahmed, the stereotypical perspective began to transition into a brighter world, where stories are told in different formats, and appeal to much wider audiences than ever before.
UP CLOSE & PERSONAL QUESTIONNAIRE
What makes a piece of illustration powerful?
Beyond great execution and technique, meaning can really empower an illustration even in its simplest form.
Which living person do you most admire?
I like to observe and learn from everyone. I admire those who wake up every day and enjoy creating their craft.
What themes inspire you?
Most of the themes are based on the Arabic culture and traditions with an added abstract layer. I am also inspired by everyday life, objects and people all around me.
Which software programs do you use?
For some illustrations I used “Adobe Illustrator” on a Mac and I draw with a mouse. Other illustrations are also created on the iPad Pro on “Procreate” using the Apple Pencil.
What is your most treasured possession?
It is not an object, but being able to illustrate is something I value so much. In some ways, it gives me purpose.
How do you overcome a difficult project?
A challenge comes a long way, as long as you are confident that it will eventually work out then most definitely it will. A lot of practice, patience and trial and error are essential [to overcome a difficult project].
What is your most marked characteristic?
Whatever I do, I always try to give 100% despite any hurdles that come in the way.
What makes the use of a tool like the Apple Pencil so special?
While there are plenty of alternatives, the Apple Pencil from my experience is very precise and is comfortable to hold. The Apple Pencil is also more powerful when used with an iPad Pro, which is my favorite device along with Procreate, an App I really love.
What is one trait you have that you are most grateful for?
I don’t like to settle, I always look for ways to improve what I do even if it means starting over, which I have done a couple of times over the years. In some ways, I am always a student eager to learn.
What element do you dislike seeing in an illustration?
Generally, when detail is added for the sake of it. I believe each illustration should retain a balance, of course it can be very detailed but also make sense.
What is the one stereotype you’d change about illustrators?
The misconception that digital illustration is a lesser art form or is easier to do. Both digital and traditional forms fall under the art umbrella and both have their challenges and beautiful outcomes.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
I basically use “basically” a lot. What are your favorite tools? On Adobe Illustrator, the “Pen Tool” is my go-to tool. On Procreate, I love the “Technical pen” and on traditional paper, HB pencils are my favorite.
Where would you like to see a display of your illustrations?
Anywhere people would be interested to see. I would like to of course have my work be spread internationally.
If you could have any job, what would it be?
I work in the Illustration and Graphic Design field, I could not ask for more.
What would you consider your greatest achievement?
I have worked with local and international clients, including “Snapchat”. I am grateful for these accomplishments but what makes me happy and makes me feel that I achieved something special is seeing a direct influence on other people who developed an interest in the illustration field after seeing my work.
What do you hope for the future?
More and more people getting in the illustration field, there is always space for people to have their own individual styles and contribute to the beautiful art scene.
For more information, follow @owaikeo on Instagram, or check out Ahmed’s website at www.OwaikeO.com.
