How this artist's Emirati identity influences her illustrations

UAE culture

Alia Al Hammadi, an Emirati illustrator from Sharjah, shares insights into her creative process and how her Emirati identity influences her artwork. Through collaborations and personal projects, she celebrates the cultural richness of the UAE, aiming to evoke warmth and inclusivity in her illustrations.

Growing up in Sharjah, Alia's journey as an artist began with doodling in the margins of her schoolbooks. Despite pursuing a degree in English language and translation, her passion for creativity persisted, finding fulfillment in post-graduation projects where she could express herself artistically.

For Alia, inspiration for her artwork stems from her surroundings in the UAE. From the vibrant sights to the melodic sounds, every aspect of her homeland carries poetic significance, serving as a wellspring of creativity. Through her illustrations, she aims to reflect the warmth and diversity of the UAE, drawing from her own experiences and memories.

In her collaborations, such as the one with the Dubai-based restaurant Gazebo, Alia showcases the rich cultural tapestry of the UAE. Her artwork portrays diverse groups of people coming together over meals, symbolizing unity and inclusivity. Projects like these allow her to share her love for her homeland and inspire others to see it through the same lens of warmth and inclusivity.

Despite collaborating with various clients, Alia stays true to her own style while incorporating their vision. Balancing personal aesthetics with client requirements is a delicate process, but she believes that staying true to her style sets her apart in the industry.

Through her artwork, especially when representing the UAE, Alia hopes to evoke feelings of warmth and tenderness. Bright colors and joyful imagery serve as invitations for viewers to experience the same sense of welcome she feels towards her country.

Social media plays a significant role in Alia's journey as an illustrator, connecting her with a wider audience and fellow artists. By sharing her work and process on platforms like Instagram, she has been able to build a supportive community and collaborate with brands.

Despite challenges such as exploitation of her work for exposure and imitation without permission, Alia remains resilient, focusing on honing her skills and staying true to herself. Looking ahead, she aspires to continue growing as an artist and connecting with people through her art, embracing whatever opportunities the future holds.

In essence, Alia Al Hammadi's journey as an illustrator is a testament to the power of creativity, identity, and perseverance in pursuing one's passion and sharing the beauty of one's culture with the world.