We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Sahar Hasan Al-louthai. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Sahar below.
Sahar, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?
I have curated art exhibitions within the Qamaria for Arts project, aiming to present and empower artists unable to travel, especially those who have endured wars. One of the most significant projects was the art exhibition ‘Do You See Me,’ held on July 17th, 2023, at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum. This exhibition focused on young artists aged 7-19 who experienced war during their childhood. Months of preparation, coordination, and communication with these talented young artists resulted in a touching and impactful event.
The exhibition was attended by notable figures like New York Mayor Eric Adams and Yemeni Ambassador Mohammed Alhadhrami. The emotional vibes conveyed through 60 diverse artworks and 30 photos of artists wearing traditional outfits representing various governorates of Yemen touched everyone present.
The exhibition also provided financial support to the artists, and interviews are now being conducted to offer them further support and exposure. This experience of helping and giving hope to these young artists has added a profound meaning to my work.
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?
I’m best known as Sahar Hasan. I am an artist, curator, and the founder of ‘Qamaria for Arts’ project. Originally from Yemen, I spent my early years there before venturing to New York in 2015. I pursued my passion for art, earning a Master’s in Fine Arts, and later transitioned from being an artist to becoming a curator.
I’ve showcased my work in four solo exhibitions across Yemen, the USA, and Turkey, including a groundbreaking show called ‘Sailing’ hosted on an Istanbul cruise ship, a first of its kind solo exhibition. I’ve also participated in various global art exhibitions and biennials, earning recognition such as the ‘Special Merit Award’ from Light Space & Time online gallery in 2020.
In 2021, I organized the innovative ‘Yemen Art Gallery’ exhibition in New York, receiving recognition from the state for my contributions to the arts. My ultimate goal is to foster connections through art, bringing people together and using creative expression to inspire and heal.
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
In a world where art weaves a tapestry of emotions, colors, and stories, supporting artists and nurturing a thriving creative ecosystem is a sacred duty for society. As I reflect on my own journey, coming from Yemen and facing numerous challenges, I find solace in the art that has shaped my life. From my humble beginnings as an artist to my role as a curator, I have witnessed the transformative power of art and the impact it can have on individuals and communities.
To truly support artists, we must first recognize and value their contributions. Art is not just a form of expression; it is a reflection of the human experience, encapsulating our triumphs, struggles, and dreams. By acknowledging and celebrating the artists among us, we create an atmosphere of appreciation that fosters their growth and encourages them to continue sharing their unique perspectives with the world.
However, support goes beyond mere accolades. Financial backing and opportunities are vital to empowering artists to pursue their craft without worrying about the burdens of financial strain. Grants, scholarships, and residencies can serve as beacons of hope, illuminating the path for artists to explore their creativity freely and without restraint.
The magic of collaboration and cross-cultural exchanges holds boundless potential. As well as promoting artists’ work and offering exposure to their masterpieces can unlock doors of opportunity. Through various media channels and public events, we can shine a spotlight on the artists’ brilliance, inspiring audiences far and wide to embrace art’s ability to transcend boundaries and connect us all.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
As an artist and curator, my creative journey is driven by a profound mission to empower fellow artists, especially those who have faced challenging circumstances, such as the impact of war during their childhood. Through my “Qamaria for Arts” project, my aim is to provide a platform for artists who are unable to travel, giving them an opportunity to showcase their works and express themselves artistically.
As I move forward in my artistic journey, I am committed to nurturing a thriving creative ecosystem that fosters inclusivity, healing, and cultural exchange. My journey is a testament to the transformative power of art and its ability to connect people from diverse backgrounds, bringing hope and understanding to the forefront of our shared human experience.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.saharhasanart.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saharh_art/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SsaharArtist
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/mwlite/in/sahar-hasan-47a589140
- Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/saharartist1
- Other: https://linktr.ee/saharhasan
Image Credits
Ala Alsamawi