“Live What You Love”
Please introduce yourself to our readers.
Hello CP reader! I am Ghadeer Dashti from Kuwait. My fulltime job is in the accounting sector. I loved drawing since childhood and I taught myself to draw and until now I’m discovering myself in this great field.
Tell us about your education.
I got my diploma in accounting and completed my academic career and got my bachelor’s degree in finance from Gust University in Kuwait.
What inspired young Ghadeer to pick up the paintbrush?
When I was a child, I used to see my father drawing and sketching in an amazing wonderful way. I was inspired by him and he encouraged me to continue.
How would you best describe your style of art?
I can’t say that I discovered my style in drawing yet. But I can say that I’m in the midst of experiments. Drawing is a big word and requires effort with passion to discover yourself in it.
Where do you take inspiration for your work?
Well, sometimes beautiful face, sometimes a sight that attracts me, feeling that overwhelm me or a situation, anything that catches my eye can be a source of inspiration.
What is your favorite medium for producing your art?
Now, I am between oil and acrylic and sketching. I’m in the process of learning a new drawing method called alcohol ink art.
Describe your studio space?
Since I paint in my house and there is no vacant room, I have allocated a special corner in the house to practice my hobby. There is nothing that stops the painter from his passion.
What artistic process goes into creating your work? Can you take us through your process from concept to final work?
Each piece, each painting has its own beautiful details according to its story or topic. Some paintings takes days only and some takes months of design and creation. Each painting has its own character that distinguishes it.
What are some of your biggest achievements so far?
One of my greatest achievement in my current life is that I achieved a balance between my main job and my hobbies and raising my children.
How do you overcome creative blocks?
This is the most problem a painter goes through. Because without creativity nothing can be accomplished. For me, going to gym do some sports is helpful. Meditation, reading a book or some time going to galleries to be inspired from other artists also helps.
What message do you like to convey through your work?
Let your art be as unique as you and your opinion is only one that matters. So, don’t worry about what anyone else thinks about.
What are you currently working on?
Now I’m working on a landscape painting in acrylic colors, size 120 x 120.
What is the biggest challenge of being an artist and a mom?
My biggest challenge I face is time. Since I am an independent mother and single parent and working full time. Time is an issue or a challenge for me.
What makes a great artist?
To be a great artist, you have to love your work, feel the passion towards it, and do not allow anyone to frustrate your hopes and your view of your work. Even if you make mistakes, adore your mistakes and learn from them.
Do you think art is a mirror of the artist?
Of course, art is literally a mirror of the artists mind. A reflection of the artist imagination at work.
How and where do you sell your work? Do you also take commissioned work?
Yes, I have sold some pieces, but not yet accepting any special requests for painting.
What are some of your other hobbies?
I have some other hobbies such as sports reading books, shooting and cycling.
What is your favourite genre of music?
I am attracted to the beautiful melodies of the old and new generation. Let’s say I adore Frank Sinatra and overwhelmed by Naika and I love songs of Majid al Mohandas.
Your favourite quote?
My favourite quote would be “Live what you love”.
Your message for our readers.
My message for any artist is to take your time, make mistakes and don’t immediately try to become successful. Be concerned of doing good work and make right choices.
What are your artistic plans for 2023 and beyond?
My plan for 2023 is to invest more time in developing my hobbies, interests, and self-development and to be the best version of myself as an artist.
Your message for us at CP magazine.
Thank you for having me. It was a pleasure and honour to be interviewed by CP magazine.
Art Direction: Jameel Arif (@jameelarif)
Photographer: Riyaz (@riyas.photokw)