Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Shoaib Shawl. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Shoaib, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?
Learning and evolving as an artist and creative individual is an ongoing journey, one that aligns with your belief that an artist’s creations throughout life contribute to a holistic, ever-expanding artwork. The quest for mastery knows no bounds, and each creation adds depth to the tapestry of one’s artistic identity. As I reflect on my own path, I can discern several key facets that have shaped my learning process, the skills crucial to my growth, and the obstacles I’ve encountered. First and foremost, the hands-on approach has been foundational to my development. Just as a child explores the world through toys, I have continually experimented with the tools of my craft. This process of discovery and experimentation has been instrumental in nurturing essential skills like adaptability, problem-solving, time management, and networking. It’s through practical engagement that I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the nuances of art and creativity.
Yet, learning and growth extend beyond the practical. Contemplation has played an equally vital role. Balancing external exposure—drawing from a diverse range of influences, experiences, and perspectives—with internal introspection has been essential. This dual approach enriches the creative process, allowing for the transformation of external stimuli into meaningful and authentic artistic expressions.
However, the journey hasn’t been without its obstacles. Self-doubt and creative blocks have cast shadows along the way. Yet, I’ve come to understand that even in the darkness, there is illumination. These obstacles, while initially daunting, have served as catalysts for growth, pushing me to confront and overcome them. They have contributed to the development of a more mature and resilient creative mindset.
In hindsight, there are ways I could have expedited my learning process. Seeking mentorship earlier in my journey would have provided valuable guidance and insights. Building a broader network within the creative industry would have opened doors to new opportunities and collaborations. Focusing on specific skill development could have accelerated mastery in particular areas.
In conclusion, the process of learning and growing as an artist and creative is a perpetual odyssey—a journey that aligns with your belief in the continuous expansion of one’s artistic identity. It’s a journey characterized by a hands-on approach, a balance of external exposure and internal introspection, and the ability to transform obstacles into opportunities for development. In this journey, the pursuit of mastery is unceasing, and every creation contributes to the masterpiece of a lifetime.
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.
In the heart of the Himalayas, amidst the towering peaks and serene valleys, I was raised. The mighty Himalayas, with their breathtaking nature and ethereal aesthetics, have been my steadfast companions, my unwavering gurus, shaping my perspective on life and art. This is my story, a journey through the lens of a life deeply intertwined with the raw beauty of the natural world and the rich tapestry of human culture. Imagine wandering through the rugged terrain of the Himalayan foothills, stumbling upon ancient, weathered ruins bearing the marks of Persian influence, silently whispering tales of bygone eras. Picture the banks of historic rivers, where poets recite verses that have transcended centuries. This is the India I call home, a land where cultural diversity thrives and where art and aesthetics take on a unique and profound form. Yet, my connection to art and creativity runs even deeper, rooted in the lesser-known but incredibly rich heritage of my Pahari culture from Kashmir. It was here, in the lap of these mystical mountains, that my passion for painting and photography was kindled at an early age. The vibrant colors and captivating compositions of my surroundings became my canvas, nurturing my intuition for beauty. I learned to appreciate the exquisite details in the simplest of things.
My artistic journey took me to the bustling streets of Los Angeles, one of the world’s largest and most diverse cities. I was grateful to have completed BFA in Filmmaking From New York Film Academy and delved into the realm of filmmaking and production design, gaining a fresh perspective that expanded my creative horizons.
As my journey continued to unfold, I found myself blessed to be chosen for the prestigious Academy Gold Rising Program by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. This incredible opportunity not only provided me with invaluable industry-level experience but also helped me build a substantial network within the film industry. During this time, I also had the privilege of serving as an Art Director for a short film, where I had the honor of being mentored by none other than the esteemed American Production Designer, James Bissell. His remarkable contributions to iconic films such as E.T., Jumanji, and 300 left an indelible mark on my creative journey. Additionally, I had the privilege of learning from renowned Set Decorators Susan Benjamin and KC Fox, further enriching my knowledge and skills in the art department.
Over the past four years in Los Angeles, I’ve had the privilege of working on a variety of creative projects. I’m thrilled to announce the completion of my short film, “Beads of Breath” (Sanson Ki Mala), which is making its world premiere at the Chicago South Asian Film Festival. The film revolves around an eccentric man’s quest to uncover the true nature of love, set against a backdrop of villagers with diverse perspectives on his identity, creating an intriguing narrative. Through this film, I aim to shed light on the enigmatic theme of divine love hidden within the lesser-known Pahari culture of Jammu and Kashmir.
In addition, I’ve had the opportunity to work as an Art Director on an upcoming feature film, ‘Paper Flowers,’ directed by the talented Indian-American filmmaker Mahesh Pailoor. I’ve also been energized by my role as a Production Designer on music videos for popular artists like B Praak and Mohammad Faiz, collaborating with renowned music video director Amanninder Singh. Further enhancing my creative journey, I’ve worked as a Set Decorator and Scenic Artist on music videos for rock and roll bands like Ice Nine Kills, Kim Dracula, and From Ashes To New, collaborating with Director Jenson Noen and Production Designer Albina Kim.
As I continue to flourish in my roles as a filmmaker and production designer, my passion for painting burns as brightly as ever. I’ve been crafting captivating artworks, some of which have already graced exhibitions, while others are poised to make their grand debut in the vibrant art scene of Los Angeles.
These experiences have been instrumental in shaping my path, and I’m eager to continue sharing the insights and inspiration gained through these remarkable opportunities in my ongoing creative endeavors. As I stand at this juncture, I’m excited to share the richness of these experiences and the boundless potential of art and culture in shaping my creative journey in this dynamic landscape.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist transcends the boundaries of the tangible and enters the realm of the divine. It’s a journey into the depths of the soul, a profound exploration of creativity, and an insatiable hunger to understand and manifest artistry. Creating art is akin to nourishing my soul, a relentless hunger that compels me to delve deeper into the craft, pushing the boundaries of my creativity. It’s an endeavor where weaknesses, those obstacles that hinder innovation, dissolve into insignificance. The act of creation is transformative, and the act of overcoming challenges is deeply rewarding. Yet, what makes the journey divine is the inability to fully comprehend the source of my artistic drive. As I engage with art, I often find myself saying, “You walk being the mysterious, and I am led by the mystery.” This enigmatic force, the impetus to create, is an ever-present companion, and its origin remains shrouded in mystery. The pursuit of art and creativity is, in essence, a contemplation of one’s own soul. It’s an introspective journey, a dive into the depths of one’s being, where the creative spirit resides.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.
Indeed, I firmly believe that creativity is a boundless force that flows within every individual, and we must resist the temptation to erect barriers between various forms of expression, labeling some as “creative” and others as not. Such distinctions can foster ego within the artist, which, in my view, contradicts the very essence of art. Instead, like an ardent lover incessantly chanting the name of their beloved, an artist engrossed in creation should obliterate the sense of self and ego, merging harmoniously with the art itself. Nevertheless, as we acknowledge the diversity of human minds, I am reminded of the words of my mentor, James Bissell, who aptly described the two parts of brain: the analytic hemisphere and the creative hemisphere . An artist’s duty, he emphasized, is to traverse this divide, access the realm of creativity, and convey their experiences to the people whose creative part are not necessarily active, allowing humanity to perceive the artistic beauty that permeates the universe.
This resonates with me, echoing the Sufi ideology of contemplation and the search for the true nature of love and truth. In Sufism, seekers delve into the profound depths of their souls, aiming to unearth the divine essence within. Similarly, as an artist, my journey involves exploring the mystical source of creativity and delivering the beauty I find to the world.
Being an artist is more than a creative pursuit; it’s a spiritual odyssey that plunges into the depths of the unknown. The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the divine and ineffable source of creativity that propels us forward, inspiring us to transcend limitations, overcome challenges, and bridge the gap between the creative and non-creative worlds. This journey, marked by mystery and contemplation, not only enriches our own souls but also offers the world a glimpse of the profound beauty that lies within the universe.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shoaibshawl/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100008523191822
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shoaib-shawl-a21514195/
- Youtube: https://youtu.be/5f7ZqWng4F0?si=zEwfM10KhA02y5l_
Image Credits
(Red carpet/6th picture) ©AMPAS