Art is subjective. But every artist needs to be given credit where credit is due. And Bahrain has no shortage of talented artists specializing in various mediums. So we thought we could shine a spotlight on some of these artists, in a segment called Local Artist of the Week In Spotlight. Our next feature? A member of Art Attack Krew, Azhar Althawadi.
Azhar is a realism and SFX artist. Let’s take a dive into her mind.
Local Artist of the Week
• Could you give our readers a general introduction about yourselves?
My name is Azhar Althawadi, I am a self-taught artist with a bachelor’s degree in ICT major in programming. I have been around art for a long time as I can remember, to start with my father is a great artist, and I’ve always wished to be as talented as he is also, I consider my mother to be my number one supporter when it comes to painting. I used to draw a lot as a kid, but it wasn’t until high school that my style really developed. As I began my art journey with traditional pen and paper sketches and moved to work with oil paint, and sometimes with other mediums. I Paint all that inspires me most, my paintings are inspired by nature. As it reflects my love for nature and animals. I prefer to draw realistic paintings usually portraits however, sometimes my work resembles darkness which I enjoy drawing. Oh, and I forgot to mention I do SFX, Face and body paint too!
• How and Why did you join Art Attack Krew?
I recently joined as the leader of the art attack krew Aref found my account on Tiktok and then invited me to join his group. It’s an incredible opportunity for me to be a part of this outstanding group of artists from diverse cultures who share a wide range of art and perspective in a supportive environment.
• Could you tell us a little about your process? How an idea ultimately becomes a finished piece?
I’ve always liked making things and expressing myself through colors, so what is my process? First, I get a cup of coffee. Go to my workshop. I start painting after I find the ideal song to listen to. Oh, and I discovered a way to combine my tech skills with my artistic abilities because I enjoy the part where I transform my work into videos, edit them, and then share them on social media.
• Who are the three artists you admire?
The Colour palette, execution, composition, and subject choice are all things I appreciate. But it is an artist’s ability to present in a fresh way that gives me the most joy. Also, while I admire all artists, I particularly like the work of Lena Danya, a gifted oil painter from Florida.
• Who are the three artists you’d like to be compared to?
I wouldn’t like to be compared with other artists. I believe every artist is unique in their own way.
•What wouldn’t you do without?
There is so much to explore and Endless opportunities when it comes to being an artist. I work mostly with all mediums as it gives me a chance to explore and be more creative. but considering my drawing style I wouldn’t work without my oil paints for now.
•What memorable responses have you had to your work?
I enjoy painting in public because I receive a lot of cute compliments from kids as they pass by and look at my work. I recall working on a painting with a lot of details during an event, and this one little girl kept coming back and asking when I was going to complete it, and she refused to go with her parents until I finished the painting. Her parents tried to persuade her that I wasn’t going to finish anytime soon.
•What role do you think art plays in society?
Art has its own language. It has the ability to bring people together. I may not be able to understand your language, but I will comprehend your concepts and the message you are attempting to convey via your artwork.
•What’s the biggest obstacle you have run into while pursuing art?
Artists should not think of the term “Obstacles”. such as there is never enough time, confidence, money, or whatever else they need at the time being. So do what you need to do and pursed your dreams!
Artistic and Funny!
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