Interview

Apr 1

Wajih Sobh

Wajih is a Lebanese American artist who founded Allure Art in 2020 as a personal endeavor to create custom abstract pieces. In 2023, he expanded his passion by hosting a series of art shows in San Francisco, California, aimed at promoting art in the city and encouraging emerging artists to showcase their work more frequently. Wajih’s inspiration stems from the beauty of oceans and the mysteries of outer space, captivating him with their unknown realms. He utilizes vibrant colors and explore three- and four-dimensional techniques in his paintings. His goal is to evoke emotion and provoke thought, inviting viewers to connect with their own experiences!

What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?

“My background is in finance but I started making art during Covid as a hobby and a way to be creative and pass some time. I became good at it and then I decided to start hosting art shows in the city to showcase my art. I also encourage other emerging artists to host more art shows to help bring the artsy scene back to San Francisco.”

What inspires you?

“My inspiration stems from the beauty of oceans and the mysteries of outer space, captivating me with their unknown realms. I utilize vibrant colors and explore three- and four-dimensional techniques in my paintings. My goal is to evoke emotion and provoke thought, inviting viewers to connect with their own experiences!”

What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?

“Usually outer space or ocean themes. I like to bring a mystery aspect into my paintings where every piece can depict an ocean bottom floor or a surface of a planet in outer space. No matter what, the indirect message is to trigger more imagination and deep thinking.”

How would you describe your work?

“A burst of fun color, multiple textures and materials in the paintings. Some paintings include gem stones and gold chips. Other paintings are multi dimensional.”

Which artists influence you most?

“Suzanne Valadone. I love how courageous she was portraying nude men in her art instead of woman, at a time where the art industry was ruled by men artists. They only showcase nude woman but never men. She challenged society and proved to be an incredible painter who brought new ideas to the world of art in Europe at that time. She was the first woman painter to make it big.”

“My inspiration stems from the beauty of oceans and the mysteries of outer space, captivating me with their unknown realms.”

What is your creative process like?

“I watch a lot of mystery documentaries or travel. A lot of my creativity comes from scenes of places I travel to - mostly places that includes an ocean.”

What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?

“To bring positive things to society or convey an important message whether through art or being vocal about it. I believe art brings people together no matter what their differences are. I will continue to evolve into making bigger and better shows that bring more people of all backgrounds together to celebrate art and celebrate bringing art back to San Francisco. San Francisco in the most recent years became a very expensive city pushing many artists away from the city. I intend to help bring back art to San Francisco even if it’s one show at a time.”

Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?

“Yes, I have had multiple exhibitions at SF Oasis since November of 2023. In these shows, I display some of my dad’s art as well along with mine. I also invite other artists to feature art with me. I hosted one art show with artist Christina Grandbois from Connecticut. I am currently working on finalizing the date for the next show.”