Interview
Ally Noormohamed
Ally, a Canadian-based artist and illustrator, has charted a unique path from a childhood passion for art through a detour in engineering and experience design—currently his full-time profession—back to his roots in art through part-time courses at Emily Carr University. This eclectic journey has profoundly shaped his artistic style and approach. Specializing in watercolor and ink cityscapes and expressive urban art, his work celebrates the extraordinary within everyday urban life, inviting viewers to find serenity, beauty, and a sense of wonder in the mundane. Without a large body of work or series to his name yet, Ally's focus remains on exploring the nuances of urban landscapes and the unnoticed magic of daily surroundings.
His art, an interplay of delicate watercolors and bold ink strokes, is an homage to the simplicity and tranquility hidden in plain sight, encouraging a pause to appreciate what is often overlooked. Each piece aims to capture a moment of quiet beauty amidst the hustle and bustle of city life, reflecting his belief in the importance of mindfulness and the value of finding peace in the familiar.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“My journey into the art world has been one of rediscovery and alignment with my childhood passion. Growing up, art was an integral part of my life - I would sketch anything that caught my eye, and this fascination continued to grow as I matured. In high school, I immersed myself in various forms of art, exploring traditional mediums from sketching to sculpture, and modern expressions through technology classes. This dual interest laid the foundation for my later career as I navigated the practical path of technology while nurturing my artistic aspirations. My pivot point came when I discovered the field of user experience design, which allowed me to marry my technical skills with my creative impulses. Over the years, despite a demanding tech career, art remained my faithful companion - a personal retreat where I could express my inner visions. It was only after a period of illness and recovery that I fully embraced my artistry, committing to sharing my work with the world.”
What inspires you?
“Inspiration for my art comes from a desire to find stillness in the whirlwind of daily life. It is drawn from everyday observations - the way light drapes over a building, the symphony of city life, or the tranquility of natural settings. I am particularly inspired by how moments of simplicity can hold profound beauty and significance, often overlooked in our busy routines. My artwork aims to capture and celebrate these fleeting snapshots of life, inviting the viewer to pause and reflect.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“My art delves into themes of serenity, simplicity, and the nuanced interplay between delicate watercolors and bold ink strokes. While my portfolio currently doesn't feature work confined to series, each piece I create is part of a broader narrative exploring balance and beauty amid the complexities of the modern world. Recognizing the depth and connectivity series work can bring, I'm keenly exploring themes and concepts that could unfold beautifully in a series format. The overarching message in my work invites viewers to engage more mindfully with their surroundings, appreciate the often-unseen artistry in the mundane, and find a sense of calm within the canvas of everyday life. As my artistic journey evolves, I look forward to embracing series work that deepens the exploration of these themes.”
How would you describe your work?
“My artwork can be described as an emotional landscape painted with the brush of subjective experience. I use colors not as mere representations of reality but as carriers of feeling and mood. The art I create is as much an introspection as it is an outward expression, characterized by a fluid blend of realism and abstraction. My pieces aim to evoke emotion, to tell stories, and to resonate with viewers on a personal level.”
Which artists influence you most?
“While I draw inspiration from a wide array of sources rather than specific individuals, my art is deeply influenced by the diverse community of contemporary artists, urban sketchers, and creators across various mediums that I engage with, especially on platforms like Instagram. This eclectic mix of influences, ranging from digital art innovators to traditional physical medium masters, fuels my creative process and continuously shapes my artistic perspective. The beauty of being part of such a vibrant, global community of artists online is the endless stream of fresh ideas, techniques, and styles that challenge and inspire my work. Each artist I follow, whether known for their urban landscapes, unique use of color, or innovative digital art, contributes to the rich tapestry of inspiration from which I draw. It's this collective influence that encourages me to explore, experiment, and evolve in my art, ensuring my work remains distinct and true to my vision while echoing the broader strokes of contemporary artistry. In essence, my inspiration is less about individual names and more about the collective spirit and creativity of the art community. This approach lets me soak up a wide range of influences, making sure my work stays unique while still reflecting the vibrant art world around us.”
What is your creative process like?
“My creative process is both methodical and intuitive. It begins with a moment of connection with a subject or scene that stirs an inner response. From there, I venture into field sketches or photographic studies to capture the essence of my subject. In my small studio, I translate these observations onto high-quality cold-pressed watercolor paper, starting with loose perspective sketches. I first employ fine liners of varying thickness to outline these sketches, delineating form and structure with precision. Next, I apply watercolors, allowing the hues to be guided more by the emotions the scene evokes in me than by an exact reproduction of reality. This approach imbues my work with a personal touch, making each piece a true reflection of my internal landscape. Once the watercolor layer dries, I revisit the artwork with fine liners and brush pens, adding details and depth to the composition. This final application of line work over the watercolor not only enhances the visual texture but also brings a balance between precision and expressive freedom. The result invites viewers to delve into both the depicted scene and their own personal reactions to it.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“The role of an artist in society is multifaceted and ever-evolving. Historically, artists have been the chroniclers of emotion, the visual storytellers who capture the spirit of their era. In my view, artists serve as a counterbalance to the hectic pace of technological advancements. Through our work, we provide a sanctuary where viewers can reconnect with the tactile, sensory experiences that ground us in the physical world. As we move forward, I see the role of artists not necessarily in adopting new technologies to create art but in using our work to remind society of the importance of unplugging and appreciating the simple, unembellished moments. My creations are a testament to this belief - a reflection of the world as seen through a lens that values the human touch. Even as digital mediums become more prevalent, there is an enduring value and necessity for art that arises from traditional techniques and personal interaction with the medium. While technology is a useful tool for sharing and promoting art, it doesn't define the essence of what we create. My hope is that artists will continue to be recognized as vital contributors to society's well being, encouraging mindfulness, and offering respite from our 'always-on' culture. The evolution I anticipate is one where the artist's role is not only defined by how we adapt to new technologies but also by how we uphold the timeless qualities of art that resonate with our shared humanity.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“Since I have not yet had the opportunity to exhibit my work in formal settings, I find myself at an exciting threshold, looking forward to future possibilities where I can share my art with wider audiences in physical spaces. My journey thus far has been predominantly digital, utilizing online platforms to display and sell my work. This approach has allowed me to connect with people globally, an experience I deeply value. However, the prospect of transitioning from the virtual to the tangible, where viewers can engage with my artwork in person, is both exhilarating and daunting. I envision my first exhibition as an intimate yet comprehensive showcase of my journey as an artist. It would not only feature my artworks but also delve into the stories behind each piece, the inspirations drawn from everyday life, and the emotional resonance they aim to evoke. This event would serve as a celebration of the beauty found in simplicity and the shared human experiences that my art seeks to highlight.”
