We were lucky to catch up with Qais Alsindy recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Qais, thanks for joining us today. Earning a full time living from one’s creative career can be incredibly difficult. Have you been able to do so and if so, can you share some of the key parts of your journey and any important advice or lessons that might help creatives who haven’t been able to yet?
Making a living from art is undoubtedly challenging. Initially, navigating the art world to find collectors, art dealers, and gallery representation was a daunting task. However, driven by my passion and unwavering belief in myself, I persevered. Through sheer determination and hard work, I discovered the key to success.
A pivotal moment in my journey came with my first solo exhibition at the United Nations headquarters in New York. Titled “War and Peace,” the exhibition aimed to shed light on the stark contrast between the ugliness of war and the beauty of peace. Coming from a country like Iraq, deeply scarred by the ravages of conflict, this message resonated deeply with me.
The exhibition drew the attention of numerous ambassadors and diplomats, allowing me to communicate a poignant message about the profound consequences of war. It was a significant milestone that not only showcased my artistic talent but also amplified my voice on a global stage.
Buoyed by this success, I continued to tread the path of art, creating works that not only brought me sustenance but also served as powerful vessels for meaningful messages. Each brushstroke became a testament to my commitment to both my craft and the causes I hold dear.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
As Qais Alsindy, an artist deeply entrenched in the exploration of social and cultural dynamics, my artistic practice is a fusion of critical analysis and ironic perspectives. Through my work, I aim to unravel the complexities of daily life and memories, drawing from a rich tapestry of personal experiences.
Inspired by a lifelong journey, I deconstruct these elements to synthesize new shapes, thoughts, and ideas. As a visionary artist with a profound desire for a better world and healthier cities, my creations are imbued with personal dreams and a steadfast commitment to cultivating environments conducive to optimal existence.
Each of my artworks serves as a narrative anchor, weaving stories that become intrinsic to the historical fabric of communities while capturing the myriad nuances of life. Embracing the role of an expressionist artist, I draw thematic inspiration from stories, tales, and poems, delving into the fundamental aspects of the human condition — navigating the realities and rituals surrounding desire, fear, and hope.
Within the realms of my paintings, figures emerge, embodying waves of woe or moments of repose in meditation, reflecting the diverse facets of human experience. Through my art, I articulate the collective yearning for stability and safety, offering visual narratives that resonate with humanity’s shared aspirations. Ultimately, the conceptual underpinnings of my canvases are rooted in contemplations on the contentious issues confronting our planet, our beloved Mother Earth.
Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
Yes, like discovering galleries that actively participate in art fairs, biennials, and other major art events. Being represented by such galleries can significantly expand exposure to new collectors and audiences. While I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with many wonderful galleries, the potential of working with those involved in prominent events could have added even more opportunities to my creative journey.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on NFTs. (Note: this is for education/entertainment purposes only, readers should not construe this as advice
My perspective on NFTs is that I’m hesitant to sell my art in that format. The NFT space has unfortunately attracted numerous scammers who try to persuade artists, like myself and many others, to sell their art at highly inflated prices, seeking to exploit and deceive. This environment of opportunism and uncertainty makes me cautious about venturing into NFTs at this time.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.qaissindy.com
- Instagram: @qais_alsindy
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/qais.alsindy
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/qais-al-sindy-19450264/
- Twitter: @QaisAlSindy
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb46y8qmd2loYU4uLQs3pjQ
Image Credits
I have all the credit of the images I uploaded. Thanks.