We were lucky to catch up with Ali Ghassan recently and have shared our conversation below.

Ali , appreciate you joining us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

Starting the REAL Academy of Art Colorado in 2014 –

The RAAC is one of the few academies worldwide that employs a traditional approach to teaching drawing and painting. Our curriculum and teaching methods are based on those used by 19th-century European academies. There is an old saying that you need to know the rules in order to break them. I believe the greatest benefit of practicing Bargue drawings or classical drawings is that it develops a very keen eye. Without these helpful techniques, achieving representational observation and strong draftsmanship becomes significantly more challenging.

We are the only Atelier in Colorado with the prestigious qualification from the Art Renewal Center (ARC). According to ARC, there are two main paths to learning art: the conventional university route or a true atelier. The primary difference is that in an atelier, the focus is initially on draftsmanship. Students learn the techniques, understand the capabilities of different materials, and discover their own potential.

In a university setting, the emphasis is more on the concept of art, often taking a backseat to the teaching of techniques and draftsmanship. Many people who come to RAAC, especially those from conventional educational backgrounds, have found that their university experience left them wanting more practical skills and techniques. They often feel disillusioned with the traditional university approach and are eager to learn the fundamental techniques at our atelier.

There is no single piece of information from a DVD or a book that will instantly make you good at drawing and painting. It requires repetition, hard work, and a dedication to learning. Just as doctors and lawyers undergo extensive study, art students must have a single-minded commitment to their goal and work diligently to achieve it.

At RAAC, we aim to host artists from across the United States and around the world who utilize 19th-century European teaching methodologies in drawing and painting. We welcome anyone interested in traditional methods and the techniques of the Masters. Our students, regardless of their skill level, learn to observe objective truths in nature and are taught the fundamental skills needed to express themselves. Our specific aim is to help them achieve the highest caliber of skills possible.

Ali , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Allow me to introduce myself and shed light on my journey into the world of art, along with the unique aspects of my work and what sets me apart from others in my field.

My name is Ali, and I am an artist whose passion for creativity was ignited through a somewhat unconventional path. Originally, I pursued a career in professional football, dedicating myself to the sport with fervor. However, an injury forced me to reevaluate my path, leading me to explore other avenues of expression.

My transition into the realm of art was catalyzed by a serendipitous encounter with a book on the Renaissance era. Delving into the lives of renowned artists from that period, I was captivated by their dedication to mastering their craft. Drawing parallels between their rigorous training regimes and the discipline required in sports, I felt a profound resonance with their journey.

Inspired by the legacy of Renaissance masters such as Michelangelo and da Vinci, I embarked on my own artistic endeavors, initially experimenting with techniques reminiscent of that era. Despite facing initial challenges and rejection from local artists hesitant to share their knowledge, I remained undeterred in my pursuit of artistic excellence.

Guided by the mentorship of my cousin, a respected local artist, I honed my skills and developed a deep appreciation for the intricacies of the craft. Embracing various mediums and styles, I found myself drawn to the tactile nature of paper and the immersive experience of creating three-dimensional art.

Today, my portfolio encompasses a diverse range of creative works, spanning traditional paintings, mixed media installations, and sculptures. I pride myself on infusing each piece with a sense of authenticity and emotional depth, striving to evoke a visceral response from viewers.

What sets my work apart is not just the technical proficiency or aesthetic appeal, but the underlying narrative and emotional resonance embedded within each creation. I aim to transcend mere visual aesthetics, using art as a medium for introspection, social commentary, and personal expression.

As an artist, I take immense pride in my ability to translate complex emotions and abstract concepts into tangible forms that resonate with audiences on a profound level. Whether through thought-provoking installations or evocative paintings, my goal is to spark dialogue, evoke empathy, and foster a deeper connection between individuals and the world around them.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

In my view, fostering a supportive environment for artists, creatives, and a thriving creative ecosystem requires a multifaceted approach that involves both societal and institutional changes. Here are several key actions that society can take to support artists and nurture a flourishing creative community:

1. Investment in Arts Education:

Society should prioritize arts education at all levels of schooling, ensuring that students have access to comprehensive art programs that foster creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression. By providing robust arts education, we can cultivate the next generation of artists and creatives while instilling a deeper appreciation for the arts within society as a whole.

2. Accessible Resources and Funding:

Governments, philanthropic organizations, and private institutions should allocate resources and funding to support artists and creative initiatives. This includes grants, fellowships, residencies, and subsidized studio spaces to help artists pursue their craft without financial barriers. Additionally, establishing artist-in-residence programs within communities can facilitate collaboration and cultural exchange.

3. Promotion of Diversity and Inclusion:

Society should actively promote diversity and inclusion within the arts, ensuring that artists from all backgrounds have equitable opportunities for recognition and representation. Embracing diverse perspectives enriches artistic discourse and fosters a more inclusive creative ecosystem that reflects the richness of human experience.

4. Supportive Infrastructure and Venues:

Investing in cultural infrastructure, such as museums, galleries, theaters, and community arts centers, creates spaces for artists to showcase their work and engage with audiences. Moreover, providing affordable exhibition and performance venues enables emerging artists to gain exposure and establish their presence within the artistic community.

5. Cultural Exchange and Collaboration:

Encouraging cultural exchange and collaboration between artists from different regions and disciplines fosters cross-pollination of ideas and innovation. Society should facilitate platforms for artists to connect, collaborate, and share their experiences, whether through artist residencies, workshops, or digital platforms.

6. Recognition and Appreciation:

Society should value and celebrate the contributions of artists to cultural enrichment and societal dialogue. Recognizing the importance of art in shaping identity, fostering empathy, and challenging societal norms encourages greater appreciation for the arts and encourages continued support for artistic endeavors.

7. Public Engagement and Participation:

Engaging the public in the arts through interactive exhibitions, public installations, and community arts projects promotes a sense of ownership and investment in the creative process. Encouraging active participation and dialogue fosters a deeper connection between artists and their audiences, strengthening the bonds within the creative community.

By implementing these measures, society can create an environment where artists and creatives can thrive, contribute meaningfully to cultural enrichment, and inspire positive social change.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Reflecting on my creative journey, there are indeed several resources I wish I had known about earlier. These resources could have potentially accelerated my growth, provided valuable guidance, and offered support along the way. Here are some of the resources I wish I had discovered sooner:

1. Online Learning Platforms:

Access to online learning platforms such as Skillshare, Udemy, or Coursera could have been immensely beneficial in expanding my skill set and knowledge base. These platforms offer a wide range of courses taught by industry experts covering various aspects of art, design, and creativity.

2. Artist Communities and Forums:

Being part of online artist communities and forums can provide valuable networking opportunities, feedback, and support from fellow creatives. Platforms like DeviantArt, Behance, or Reddit’s art-related subreddits offer spaces for sharing artwork, seeking advice, and connecting with like-minded individuals.

3. Creative Workshops and Retreats:

Participating in creative workshops, retreats, or artist residencies can offer immersive learning experiences and exposure to new techniques and perspectives. These events provide opportunities for skill development, collaboration, and inspiration in a supportive environment.

4. Mentorship Programs:

Engaging with mentors or joining mentorship programs tailored to artists and creatives can provide invaluable guidance, feedback, and encouragement. Mentors can offer personalized advice, share their experiences, and help navigate the challenges of a creative career.

5. Business and Marketing Resources:

Acquiring knowledge in business management, branding, and marketing is crucial for artists looking to establish their presence and sustain their practice. Resources such as books, podcasts, or workshops on topics like artist entrepreneurship, social media marketing, and portfolio development can empower artists to promote their work effectively.

6. Grants and Funding Opportunities:

Early awareness of grants, funding opportunities, and artist residencies could have provided financial support and enabled me to pursue ambitious projects or further my artistic development. Researching available grants and residencies specific to my artistic practice and applying for them could have opened doors to new opportunities and resources.

7. Artistic Tools and Technology:

Staying informed about advancements in artistic tools, software, and technology can enhance creative workflows and expand artistic possibilities. Familiarizing myself with digital art software, innovative materials, or specialized equipment relevant to my practice could have enriched my creative output.

Overall, discovering these resources earlier in my creative journey could have provided me with valuable support, knowledge, and opportunities for growth. While hindsight offers insights into missed opportunities, I now recognize the importance of continually seeking out new resources and learning opportunities to fuel my artistic endeavors.

Contact Info:

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