Hope Alive! Painting

Artist Statement As a largely self-taught artist, I like to use shape, form, colors and textures to create depth with unique layering of materials. I allow colors and movement to guide my art process in creating original one-of-kind art pieces. Art is a form of communication, and I paint when I’m inspired by my surroundings or want to express what I cannot convey through mere words. I like to explore ideas that can be widely interpreted and have different meanings to individuals. My goal is to connect with people through my art in a way that is freeing and emotionally engaging. Artist Biography I am a Yemeni-American Artist who moved to Utah five years ago. My love and appreciation for art started when I was in high school while living in Tokyo, Japan. I spent countless hours in the art lab, and took every class possible. I longed to pursue a degree in art, but my parents talked me out of it in favor of a more “practical” path. While pursuing an M.A from Ohio University in International Studies as a Fulbright Scholar, I studied education reform and gender equity, topics that are still dear to my heart, even as I have returned to my earlier passion for art. These studies helped launch my “practical” career working and traveling in multiple countries in North and East Africa, Southeast Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East. Throughout my travels, I always took time to connect with local artists, take classes, and collect original pieces that touched me. I am very grateful to have had these opportunities along the way, since they influenced my development and growth as an artist.