Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Amir Kharrat. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Amir, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

“Evolving Forms: A Year in Sculpture” emerged as a deeply personal exploration during a pivotal period of introspection and healing in my life. As an artist navigating the complexities of dissociation, I sought to express the nuanced emotions and experiences that come with this condition. This series was conceived over a transformative year, where each sculpture became a means to process my internal landscape and articulate the intricate dance between identity and disconnection. Through countless hours of experimentation with form and texture, I found a therapeutic rhythm that allowed me to express the subtleties of dissociation in a way that words could not. The consistent use of white in the sculptures symbolizes a search for purity and neutrality amidst the chaos, while the stark black backgrounds serve as a powerful reminder of the void that often accompanies dissociative episodes. This collection represents not only my journey toward understanding and acceptance but also an invitation for others to engage with the complex nature of dissociation and reflect on their own experiences with identity and self. As I shaped each piece, I was inspired by the profound potential for art to bridge the gap between inner turmoil and external reality, resulting in a series that is as much about the process of creation as it is about the finished forms themselves.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Here’s a refined version of your description that maintains your original intent while enhancing clarity and flow:

Being an architecture student at the end of my second year, I was still searching for the perfect software to bring my architectural ideas to life when I stumbled upon Grasshopper, a visual programming plugin for Rhino 3D. This software immediately caught my attention due to its unique and extraordinary tools. My fascination with fluid and dynamic shapes, inspired by iconic architects like Zaha Hadid, led me to discover a new passion: abstract digital sculpting and form-finding. I began using geometry and texture as a palette to create my masterpieces.

Since then, I have created various digital sculptures and have started working as a designer and freelancer. I craft digital sculptures and objects for clients, including lamps, tables, and more. I am most proud of how I found a new passion in sculpting through my love of architecture. I want my fans to know that through hard work and dedication, I can bring any idea you have in mind to life. I have faced numerous challenges on past projects, but I persevered by learning new techniques and approaches to ensure my clients are satisfied. This ability to overcome obstacles and continuously evolve is what sets me apart in the industry.

Whether it’s an intricate sculpture or a functional design piece, my work aims to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation. I want my potential clients, followers, and fans to see that my journey is defined by resilience, passion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Through each project, I strive to inspire others with the endless possibilities of combining architecture and abstract art, crafting unique pieces that resonate on both a personal and aesthetic level.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Last year, in June 2023, an art gallery in Tunis La Marsa put out an open call for young artists, inviting emerging talents to showcase their work. I decided to apply, submitting four of the first sculptures I ever created. At the time, I was hesitant and unsure if I would be accepted, as I often doubted whether my art, which is both new and unconventional, would be appreciated by others. To my surprise and delight, I was accepted into the gallery, and my sculptures were displayed alongside works from other talented artists.

Participating in this exhibition turned out to be a pivotal moment for me. It was the first time I had the opportunity to present my art to a broader audience, and the response was overwhelmingly positive. Many visitors were intrigued by my sculptures and began asking questions about my creative process and the inspirations behind my work. This experience not only boosted my confidence as an artist but also significantly increased my visibility on social media. I gained a substantial number of new followers on Instagram, who were interested in my art and eager to see more of what I create.

Advice for Building a Social Media Presence:

For those just starting to build their social media presence, here are a few pieces of advice based on my own experiences:

Be Authentic: Share your genuine passion and creativity with your audience. People are drawn to authenticity, and when you express your true self through your work, it resonates with others. Don’t be afraid to show the unique aspects of your art, even if they differ from mainstream trends.

Engage with Your Audience: Interact with your followers by responding to comments, answering questions, and even sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of your creative process. Building a community around your art can foster a deeper connection with your audience.

Participate in Events and Collaborations: Take advantage of opportunities like art exhibitions, open calls, or collaborations with other artists. These events not only provide exposure but also allow you to network with like-minded individuals who can support and promote your work.

Consistency is Key: Regularly update your social media with new content, whether it’s a finished piece, a work in progress, or a thought-provoking idea. Consistency helps keep your audience engaged and encourages them to return for more.

Embrace Feedback: Be open to feedback and criticism, as they can provide valuable insights and help you grow as an artist. However, always stay true to your vision and use feedback to refine your work rather than completely altering your artistic direction.

Stay Patient and Persistent: Building a social media presence takes time and dedication. Don’t get discouraged by slow progress; instead, focus on continuously improving your craft and sharing your journey with your audience.

In summary, my journey into the art world taught me the importance of believing in my work and not underestimating its impact. Social media is a powerful tool for connecting with people who appreciate your art, and by staying true to yourself and engaging with your audience, you can build a loyal following that supports your creative endeavors.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the genuine feeling of happiness and fulfillment that comes after all the hard work, time, and struggle I endure to bring my visions to life. There’s nothing quite like the moment when everything comes together, and I see the final piece exactly as I imagined it. The journey from concept to completion is often filled with challenges, frustrations, and moments of doubt, but reaching that point of realization makes it all worthwhile.

This sense of accomplishment is not only rewarding in my personal artistic journey but also in my work with clients. Whether it’s a sculpture that reflects my own creative exploration or an object design crafted to meet a client’s specific needs, seeing the satisfaction and joy on my clients’ faces is incredibly gratifying. There’s a deep sense of connection and fulfillment that comes from knowing I’ve successfully translated their ideas and desires into tangible forms that exceed their expectations.

Ultimately, it’s the impact of my work on others that drives me. Art has the power to evoke emotions, spark conversations, and create meaningful experiences, and being able to contribute to that through my creations is immensely rewarding. The positive feedback and appreciation from those who interact with my work reaffirm my purpose as an artist, motivating me to continue exploring, experimenting, and pushing the boundaries of my craft.

Whether it’s the quiet contentment of achieving a personal artistic goal or the shared excitement of a client who feels understood and represented through my work, these rewarding moments remind me why I chose this path. They inspire me to keep evolving and to use my art as a means of connecting with people on a deeper level.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amir_kharrat/

Image Credits

Amani Naija