Jehan Ali
Artist Statement
I am here and there, at the undulating indents, contriving a thought, sinking in it deeply, to resurface on a paper before it extinguishes in the charcoaled heap. Or blend it brightly on a more rigid or softer surface.
I like to seize fleeting moments and depict them. It begins blurry then focused. Sometimes it starts with a word, sometimes with an image and manifolds from within to outwards, or vice versa. Different angles give different perspectives.
It captivates me to look through the multifarious reflections of a kaleidoscope. Where time, light, vibrant colours, various patterns and events, change constantly, with every rotation and twist. As nothing is stable in this life, but the truth, it impels me:
The purpose of life is to seek the truth… the more you head away from it, the more it gets distorted…
Distorted patterns are intolerable, neither harmonious, nor peaceful, and not even funny like carnival mirrors.
From the havoc, I gather shreds, strips, and pieces, press them gently, stitch them. They coagulate at their borders, layers coalesce, unite and heal to whole.
The chaos is calmed but stillness is temporary. Repeat: Movement either deliberate or rapid, is needed, for a new beginning.
What’s your background?
I am an Iraqi mixed media artist, writer, & interior designer. I survived wars, and have resided in Dubai for the past 24 years. Where, I had the education, peace & safety that enabled me to become the artist I am today. I work in many mediums; oil & acrylic paintings, collage, photography, poetry, recently embroidery & hand-built ceramics. I am very grateful to United Arab Emirates.
What does it mean to you to win the Collectors Art Prize?
It seems habitual to win art prizes lately. Nevertheless, it feels honourable & delightful each & every time. Winning the Collector’s Prize is another boost to my art journey & career. I feel tremendously grateful.
What do you think is the role of art in the world today?
The role of art & the artist is very important. Great art evokes & ushers: It stirs strong
emotions & changes the way we think & perceive things around us, it expands our minds, it urges us to take action. Art is a cultural identity & a world without art, is a very dull one.
What would it be if you could change one thing about the art world?
Art genuinely expressed is truly effective. More transparency & authenticity.
What are your most significant professional achievements?
Having my art cross country borders, when I wasn’t myself able to travel: Exhibiting Internationally, influencing art, winning awards, being self-published, persistence & making things happen, being an active member in the art community.
What do you wish to tell viewers about your work that might not come out explicitly? What do you hope to inspire with your artwork?
I would like to tell viewers more, that’s why I started an art blog on my website, and I communicate on my Instagram page & stories regularly. I hope to inspire positive change, healing, & cultivation.
What advice would you give to the upcoming generation of artists?
Make the art that you want to make, try different medias & techniques, it always leads to something amazing, fail, get frustrated but don’t give up. Read a lot, & always keep an art journal & notebook.
In what direction would you like to see your career go in the next five years?
In five years: I would like to be in more museums / galleries / commercial spaces, and even work there. Manage projects, curate, design exhibitions, teach & give back to the community.
Country United Arab Emirates
Website www.f-nan.com
