By Johara Al Mogbel
Name: Momad
Age: 38
Occupation: Full time writer, artist and nomad.
Medium: Ink on paper or anything that will sit still long enough.
What got you started?
The need to escape reality leading to a much more real world deep inside my mind.
Why do you art?
Because without it, all meaning is lost.
Is your work the result of sudden inspiration, or long term planning? How do you think up your concepts?
I am a self-taught artist, therefore planning and preparing ahead is not a possibility. I will “see” or dream an image that I will quickly try to capture as a small sketch. Other times I just start collaging papers, ideas and images, to support my concept. I usually get inspired by an artwork or a topic I’m interested in, and try my best to come up with the desired result.
What do you think of the art scene in Riyadh? Anything you’d like to see changed?
Sudden inspiration, or ‘the spark,’ is the catalyst; a visual, story or a character demanding to be brought to life. The journey of bringing this spark to life requires patience and long hours of meditation and contemplation. An idea begins as an almost intangible line, almost, if you reach for it enough times you might finally grab onto something one day. You then follow this line, this idea, to see what surprising places it might take you.
What is, in your opinion, the best thing you’ve ever created and why?
The best thing I have ever created is the thing I have yet to create. Because if I’m not improving my craft and surprising myself with each work, then I am no longer moving forward.
What do you think of the art scene in Riyadh? Anything you’d like to see changed?
I’ve been away for 10 years and I’ve been surprised by the new wave of energy and hunger for art washing over the city. It is very encouraging and exciting. Nothing needs to change, because things are already changing.
Who are your role models?
My mother.
What does being creative mean to you?
Being in a constant state of wonder. Not being afraid of new ideas.
Favorite piece of artwork by someone else?
The work of Abdulrahman Nugamshi has been powerful and inspiring at the moment.
