Amal AlRashidI s a civil engineer, but in reality, she always has been an artist at heart. She carved her own path in the art work and works with both digital and traditional mediums to create artworks that draw on her rich cultural heritage of Islamic and Arabic art with a modern twist to make them relevant and relatable. We spoke to her about her journey and process.
How did you get interested in art? Did you start as a child? What is your first memory of making art?
I was interested in arts and crafts as a child. I was always curious and interested in finding and using things that were unwanted like broken items or things that didn’t work anymore. I loved putting these things together and decorating them. My journals were the first works of art that I saved. I still journal to this day and I loved using colored paper and cuttings to decorate them. I loved visiting libraries and bookstores so I could browse and buy interior decorating and crafting books and magazines.
What inspires you?
Nature inspires me. Or a word or sentence that I have read or heard. Sometimes music speaks to my soul and at other times people’s faces appear to tell stories. I am also inspired by other people I follow on social media, they don’t even have to be artists. Inspiration comes from everywhere and not necessarily somewhere specific.
How would you describe your style/aesthetic?
Most of my work has a distinct Arabic style. I love the authenticity and returning to our roots. Being able to share the beauty of our heritage is part of why I love working on these projects. Blending the beauty of our heritage and modern elements is my favorite way of highlighting it. I feel that there are so many gorgeous details in our typography and motifs.
Your art feels very local, from your use of well- known Arabic figures to Arabic lettering, was that a conscious decision on your part? Do you feel that it is important for an artist to explore their cultural heritage?
Absolutely! My intention is to focus and showcase Arab beauty and origins. Our eyes are thirsty for authentic Arab details. It is a wonderful thing to be able to celebrate our cultural identity and to be able to renew it. Our Arab identity is rich with beautiful details that feed all our senses. In design, for example, I am attracted to Arab lettering and how they are fluid and easily melt together. The words become irrelevant when compared to the beauty of the calligraphy. And in Islamic art, the seemingly simple ornamental blocks are strong and poignant.
What different mediums do you use? Do you prefer digital over traditional mediums?
I use Photoshop and Illustrator but I also enjoy creating traditional art using my hands. I don’t have a preference. Sometimes I prefer digital art and at other times I like going old school.
Are there other mediums you would like to explore?
I am working on video so I am learning how to use Aftereffects to create animations.
What is your artistic process like? How do you start and keep going until you are done?
First, I take in all the visual nutrients I can that are related to the design I am working on. It is almost like eating up all the inspiration around me. Sometimes I print ideas and designs that I like and stick them on the walls in front of me. I sometimes sketch with my hands before I even sit in front of the design software. Then I start using the computer. I repeat the process until the design is exactly what I want it to be. I sometimes leave it up on the screen for days to make sure it is what I am looking for. I can’t truly judge it until I have been seeing it for days.
Do you have a favorite piece of work? If so, which one is it?
I love all of them but Kalemat (Words) is my favorite.
What advice would you give to your younger self and to aspiring artists?
Constantly improve and evolve as an artist. Learn from everything and everyone even if it is something that you think is far from your personality because it will definitely help you grow and might awaken an innate feeling or talent inside you. You can’t do if you don’t try. Every time you try something new, creativity will be born and your experiences will become richer. Nothing is lost and all experiments or skills you gain is stored in your memory and will help you on your journey. Stay humble in the learning process and you will get better.
To see more of Amal’s art follow @ar_designq8 on Instagram. Images courtesy of Amal AlRashidi.
