We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Sam Sasan. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Sam below.
Sam, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you talk to us about serving the underserved.
the cornerstone of our business is built on serving the underserved. A story that perfectly illustrates this commitment involves a community often overlooked in the world of art and photography — individuals with different abilities.
It all began with a casual conversation at an art show. I met a wonderfully talented artist named Mara, who happened to be visually impaired. Jane told me about the struggles she faced while trying to express her artistic vision — from inaccessible art spaces to the lack of proper guidance, she experienced it all. Her story moved me deeply, and it was at that moment I realized the gap that existed within our artistic community.
Motivated by Mara’s story, I initiated the “Art Without Barriers” project. We transformed our studio to cater to artists with varying needs and abilities, ensuring they have a safe, accessible space to create. But we didn’t stop there. We started hosting workshops that aimed to empower these artists, offering tailored instruction and resources.
But this isn’t just about the physical environment or tools; it’s about community and representation. It’s about ensuring that every artist, no matter their abilities, feels seen, heard, and valued.
One day, during a workshop, I watched Mara work with tactile materials. I saw her face light up with a joy so profound that it left me speechless. She was creating an extraordinary piece of art, rich with textures, each meticulously chosen and placed. It was a pure expression of her talent and perspective, unhindered by her impairment.
This transformative experience moved everyone in the room. It reminded us why we do what we do, and why we strive to serve the underserved. Because art is an innately human experience that transcends physical limitations. It should be accessible to
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?
First and foremost, I’m an artist at heart. My name is Sam, and I’ve been passionately involved in the creative arts as long as I can remember. Photography and art direction have been my playgrounds, providing me with the opportunity to capture the world as I see it and craft stories that resonate with people’s emotions.
Growing up, I was always the kid with a camera in hand, capturing moments, emotions, and the beauty around me. As I grew older, I realized my passion wasn’t just a hobby; it was a calling. I pursued a degree in photography, and then further honed my skills in the advertising industry. This blend of formal education and real-world experience has helped me develop a unique aesthetic and storytelling capability.
Today, as a professional Art Director and Photographer, I provide a range of services. From conceptualizing and directing creative campaigns for brands to personal photography projects, and conducting workshops for budding artists, my work is as diverse as it is engaging.
My clients often come to me with an idea, a vision, or a story they want to tell. I take their abstract thoughts and weave them into a tangible, visually appealing narrative. Whether it’s a brand wanting to launch a product, a magazine needing a striking cover, or an individual wishing to capture their personal story through a portrait, I help bring their ideas to life.
What sets me apart, I believe, is my unwavering commitment to authenticity. I strive to capture the genuine essence of my subjects, be they people or products. I strongly believe in the power of “Art Without Barriers”, an initiative close to my heart that seeks to make the world of art and photography inclusive and accessible for differently-abled individuals.
One of the things I’m most proud of is witnessing the transformative power of this initiative, seeing individuals who are often sidelined, express their artistic capabilities, and make their mark on the art world. It’s a constant reminder of why I do what I do.
In essence, my brand is all about authentic storytelling, creativity, and inclusivity. It’s about giving a platform to those voices that are often unheard and unseen, thereby challenging and broadening our understanding of what art and photography can be. I would like potential clients, followers, and fans to know that when they engage with my work, they’re not only getting a visually stunning product but also contributing to a more diverse and inclusive world of art.
Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?
Absolutely. Looking back, there were several resources I wish I had known about earlier. One of them is the importance and availability of online educational platforms that offer in-depth courses about art, photography, and design. Websites like Coursera, Udemy, and MasterClass provide access to world-renowned professionals who offer insights into their creative processes.
I also wish I knew about the wide array of editing software beyond the traditional ones. Programs like Capture One and Luminar have offered a fresh perspective on post-production that I wasn’t aware of in my early days.
Lastly, the power of networking and communities often gets overlooked. Online communities and forums like Behance, Dribbble, or even Reddit can be invaluable resources. They can provide feedback, inspire new ideas, and open up collaboration opportunities.
Any thoughts, advice, or strategies you can share for fostering brand loyalty?
Maintaining a solid, honest relationship with my clients is paramount. I like to start by ensuring clear and regular communication throughout the entire process of a project. Regular updates, brainstorming sessions, and soliciting feedback make clients feel involved and valued.
Moreover, after the completion of a project, I make sure to follow up, to ask about their experience and any potential improvements they might suggest. It’s not only about ensuring their satisfaction but also about continuous improvement from my end.
Additionally, I maintain an active presence on social media where I share behind-the-scenes looks at projects, insights into my creative process, and personal anecdotes. This allows clients and followers to connect with me and my brand on a deeper level, seeing the human and the passion behind the work.
Lastly, I organize regular art workshops and photography webinars, often offering priority or discounts to previous clients. These not only help in skill-sharing but also foster a sense of community and loyalty around my brand.
All of these efforts are not just about keeping in touch with clients; they’re about creating a meaningful, lasting relationship based on mutual respect and shared passion for the arts.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://samsasan.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saamsassan/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saamsassan
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saamsassan/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@saamsasan
Image Credits
moshe, olena, alex, courtney, donya, saba, kallie, saina, rambod, jules, rachel