Interview
Sahar Ghavami
Sahar is a Visual Artist and MEd graduate from Dubai's American University, based in Belgium. She blends art and education to explore memory, culture, and identity. She has exhibited at Expo 2020 and much more, and she is passionate about creating narrative-infused art that is shared globally.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I am an artist based in Dubai and Belgium, originally from Iran, where I first explored my love for art and visuals through the strong artistic heritage and culture. At the age of 5, my playdates with my best friend or my mother always consisted of drawing time and creative activities. After strengthening my foundation in fine arts, I ranked 105th among 58,000 art applicants in Iran's National Universities Exam. This was followed by my move to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where I earned my Bachelor in Fine Arts in Studio Arts from the American University in 2021. For the past seven years, I have been working on my art practice while exhibiting solo and participating in group shows across the UAE, including at the prestigious Expo 2020 Dubai, where I had the opportunity to share my vision with a global audience. I have also received several awards and accolades, such as the Global Undergraduate, Dubai Lynx Student Advertising Contest, and AUD Outstanding Visual Communication Student Gala awards. Meanwhile, I developed a fascination with children's picture books and literature. In order to delve deeper into children's literature, psychology, and education, I acquired my Master of Education from the American University in Dubai. Now, I combine my passion for art and education to create and share meaningful pieces that explore the intersections of memory, culture, and personal identity. Additionally, I have experience teaching fine arts at the undergraduate level, and I enjoy designing and facilitating workshops to inspire and empower young people. After my recent move to Belgium, I am now focused on exploring the international art scene and collaborating with other artists and organizations to promote art and culture in the region. Through my upcoming art show and picture book publication projects, I look forward to continuing to develop and share my narrative-driven art practice with the world.”
What does your work aim to say? Does it comment on any current social or political issues?
“My art exists at the crossroads between past, present, and future through reminiscence, retrospect, and representation. Being raised in an authoritative, patriarchal culture, I felt increasingly obligated to find my way out. To create a space to exist in without judgment and constrictions of expression. I discovered that to survive is to grow like a weed between the cracks. To have a voice is to submit, cohabit, and perform. Where surveillance exists indoors, outdoors, culturally, and within family, I developed a language of protest through subtle symbolism. In spaces where being loud, fighting back, and having a choice were not permitted, I found comfort in exploring and creating quiet, soft, protected places. Where the harsh is watered down, where hope lives, no matter how childish or far-fetch it might seem. In doing so, I found fascination in dreams and interpretations- a gateway to the personal and collective unconscious- that has been spiritual and religious traditions through millennia, including mine. I began to notice the development of thematic patterns within my work and dive deeper into my subconscious, deep longings, and the reflections of my long-lost memories. So in a sense my work touches upon my feelings about many topics such as women's rights, childhood trauma as well as love, loss, and lucid dreams. Rules, borders, and judgment no longer exist within my imaginary art spaces, and the harshness of reality is softened by the touches of the dream.”
Do you plan your work in advance, or is it improvisation?
“A sweet mix of both. I always start with a vague preliminary sketch of my work, with plenty of room to wiggle and improvise. Sometimes the final version looks quite similar to the original sketch, but most of the time it does not.”
Are there any art world trends you are following?
“I don't believe in following trends, but rather in getting inspired by or admiring certain art styles or genres. I truly enjoy the pop-surreal art movement and art that features cute and softly featured characters or scenes. I have observed that this genre is prevalent in the works of East Asian artists, and I believe this style complements what I am exploring within my own work, as well as the innocence and softness found in children's picture book illustrations.”
What process, materials and techniques do you use to create your artwork?
“Hoping to capture the remnants of visions and memories, I actively keep a journal record of my dreams. By doing so, I have begun to notice the development of thematic patterns within them and delved deeper into my subconscious, profound longings, and reflections of long-lost memories. I consider the emotions conveyed by colors, the type of scene or character, and the general theme of the work. Then, as I work in the studio, with each layer, I adjust my composition and elements based on what came before and what feels right for the next steps. My work is multidisciplinary, yet my medium of choice is acrylic on canvas, as it aligns perfectly with my rapid tempo, allowing me to work on multiple layers and experiment with glazing and various visual effects in a shorter amount of time.”
“My art exists at the crossroads between past, present, and future through reminiscence, retrospect, and representation.”
What does your art mean to you?
“My art holds a deep significance in my life; it serves as a bridge between the past and the present, between dreams and reality. It is a means through which I capture the elusive fragments of visions and memories, making them tangible and accessible. My art is a journey into the depths of my subconscious, a voyage into the recesses of my soul where I uncover hidden longings and rediscover long-lost memories. It is a medium through which I explore the delicate interplay of colors, scenes, and themes, translating emotions onto the canvas. Beyond the mere act of creation, my art is a reflection of my innermost thoughts and experiences, a narrative that weaves together the threads of culture, identity, and personal growth. It is a source of inspiration and empowerment for both myself and those who connect with my work, inviting them to explore the intricate tapestry of human emotions and the enchanting world of dreams.”
What’s your favorite artwork and why?
“One of my favorite works of art is "The Raft of the Medusa" by Théodore Géricault. This masterpiece has always held a special place in my heart due to its profound emotional impact and its powerful social commentary. Géricault's meticulous attention to detail and his ability to convey raw human suffering and resilience are truly remarkable. The painting captures the harrowing real-life event of the shipwreck of the French frigate Méduse in 1816, where survivors were left adrift on a makeshift raft, battling hunger, despair, and the elements. Géricault's use of dramatic lighting and composition adds a sense of urgency and turmoil to the scene. What I find most compelling about "The Raft of the Medusa" is its unflinching portrayal of the human condition. Géricault's dedication to depicting the truth behind this tragic event, including the suffering and the heroic acts of survival, is a testament to his commitment to shedding light on social injustices. This work not only showcases his exceptional artistic talent but also highlights his courage in addressing uncomfortable truths within society. "The Raft of the Medusa" is a powerful reminder of the capacity for both suffering and resilience within the human experience, making it an enduring masterpiece that continues to resonate with viewers and artists alike.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“All of my exhibitions hold personal significance to me, from 'Ekta'23,' a group exhibition at the ToDa Theatre of Digital Art in Dubai, to the 'Qodorat, Aqdar World Summit' group exhibition at the renowned Expo 2020 Dubai. However, my personal favorite is 'In-flux: Once Upon a Dream,' which was exhibited at the Rotunda Gallery and Zimzy Gallery in Dubai and sold as a collection. This collection was also honored with the Global Undergraduate Awards from Ireland, where it received the highly commended winner designation. Among my other exhibitions are 'Wetex Dubai' for Dewa Green Week at the Dubai World Trade Centre, as well as 'Off-guard,' 'Beyond,' and 'Dive' at the Rotunda Gallery in Dubai, among others held across the United Arab Emirates.”
