Mohamed Ali came to the U.S. in 2018 from his native land of Egypt and is now settled in Hamilton. When his occupation in the fitness industry was shuttered due to the pandemic in 2020, he turned back to his original love, making art.
Using pastel and charcoal, Ali draws surrealist figures on cardboard. His work is distinctive and interesting to understand. The work entwines figures with ideas to leave an impression from the artist.
What are you communicating with your art?
As an artist, my art communicates various emotions, experiences, and perspectives. Through my work, I aim to evoke thought, provoke emotions, spread awareness about what is happening on Mother Earth, endangered animals and inspire introspection.
What media do you use and why?
I use a variety of media in my art, but I prefer soft pastel, charcoal and graphite, I like to touch the colors, feeling it when blending, I use in most of my drawings cardboards to spread awareness of recycling.
When did you begin making art?
I began making art at a young age and have been continuously honing my skills ever since. While I have not had formal study in art, I had the chance to study art at the Princeton Academy of Art for few months from one of the greatest artists, Gilberto Geraldo. I have dedicated countless hours to self study, experimentation and learning from other artists. This has allowed me to develop my own style and artistic voice.
You paint figures? Do you work from models? Where do the ideas come from?
Yes, I often paint figures and draw inspiration from various sources. Sometimes I work from models or reference images, while other times the ideas come from my imagination or personal experiences. I find inspiration in the human form, emotions, nature, and the world around me.
Where did you learn the style that you are working in now?
I have learned and continue to learn from a variety of sources, including studying the works of other artists, like my master Mr. Gilberto, Aaron Blaise, Leonardo da Vinci and other masters, attending workshops and experimenting with different techniques. My current style is a culmination of my artistic journey and the influences that have shaped me along the way.
How does showing at art fairs influence your styles or methods?
Showing at art fairs provides a unique platform for exposure and interaction with a diverse audience. It allows me to showcase my work to a wider range of art enthusiasts, collectors and fellow artists. The exposure can influence my styles or methods by opening up new opportunities for collaboration, feedback and growth.
Living in the world of fitness, do any aspects cross over into your artwork?
Living in the world of fitness gave me the ability to study how muscles move and the anatomy of humans. It gave me a uniqueness in personality, being more confident about what I represent; accept the loss but never get beat.
Staying physically active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle helps me stay energized, focused, and mentally sharp, which in turn positively influences my creative process.
What fight/struggle do you have regarding your art?
Like any artist, I face various challenges and struggles in my artistic journey. These may include finding and maintaining a suitable studio space, managing finances for art supplies, balancing time commitments, seeking recognition and sales, and overcoming physical limitations. I find promoting the work and getting it in front of viewers in venues a challenge.
What one attribute should all artists have?
One attribute that all artists should have is passion. Passion fuels creativity, drives experimentation, and sustains motivation. It is the driving force behind the artist’s dedication to their craft and the ability to overcome obstacles.
What is most difficult about being an artist?
The most difficult aspect of being an artist is often the vulnerability that comes with sharing one’s work. Putting your art out into the world exposes it to criticism, rejection, and subjective interpretations. It requires courage and resilience to navigate through these challenges and stay true to your artistic vision.
What is on the horizon? What are you looking forward to?
Looking to the future, I am excited about the possibilities and opportunities that lie ahead. I am constantly seeking new avenues to showcase my art, collaborate with other artists, and connect with a wider audience. I am also looking forward to further exploring different themes, styles, and techniques in my work, pushing the boundaries of my creativity. I am looking forward to a larger exhibition in 2025.
Artist Mohamed Ali with his illustration, “Regeneration.”,
