We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Zoya Aly. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Zoya below.
Hi Zoya, thanks for joining us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?
It’s funny looking back, but I think deep down, I always knew I was meant to create. For years, though, I convinced myself otherwise. I followed the “safe” path—went to business school, worked corporate jobs, and settled into a routine. At first, it felt like the right thing to do. Everyone around me seemed so sure it was the way to a stable and successful life. But something was missing.
Corporate life was a grind. I had roles that ranged from marketing to project management, and while they paid the bills, they drained my soul. The monotony of endless meetings, rigid schedules, and the suffocating predictability of it all left me feeling empty. I kept telling myself that this was just how life worked—adults had to sacrifice passion for practicality. But that nagging feeling of unhappiness never went away.
Business school was another clear sign that I wasn’t in the right place. I was barely getting by, scraping through exams and struggling to stay motivated. None of it sparked any excitement in me. It felt like I was trudging through quicksand, trying to force myself into a mold that just didn’t fit. Then came the turning point—an elective art class.
I only took it as a break from the grind of accounting and economics, but as soon as I picked up a paintbrush, something clicked. It was like I could breathe again. Even my grades in my art courses were light-years ahead of my business courses, and I found myself staying up late—not because I had to, but because I wanted to. Creating gave me a kind of joy and purpose that I hadn’t felt in years.
Switching my major to art wasn’t an easy decision. I had to battle my own doubts and the voices of others telling me it wasn’t practical. But for the first time, I started excelling. I was alive in a way I’d never been before, pouring myself into every project, losing hours in the flow of creativity. I realized then that I was happiest when I was creating.
Leaving behind the corporate world was the best decision I ever made. It wasn’t just about pursuing art—it was about choosing joy, authenticity, and a life that felt right for me. Now, I wake up every day with a sense of purpose, knowing I’m on the path I was always meant to take.
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 grew up in an immigrant household, where culture and tradition were woven into the fabric of daily life. My parents worked tirelessly to give us a better life, and their journey deeply shaped my understanding of resilience and creativity. Our home was always alive with the sounds, smells, and colors of our heritage—spicy curries bubbling on the stove, music that carried stories from generations before us, and the intricate beauty of henna art during celebrations. These experiences didn’t just form who I am; they became the foundation of my art.
Henna was my first love when it came to creativity. As a teenager, I learned to mix the paste, practice the delicate lines, and create intricate designs that told stories of celebration, love, and identity. What started as something I did for family gatherings turned into a gateway to entrepreneurship. Before I even realized it, I had clients—brides, friends, and women in the community—trusting me to adorn them for their most important moments. Henna taught me the power of art to connect, to heal, and to celebrate identity.
Even now, henna remains at the heart of my work. Its patterns and flow naturally find their way into my mixed media pieces, whether it’s through fine details in my brushwork or as literal texture in a design. I love blending the traditional with the contemporary, creating something that feels both timeless and forward-looking. It’s my way of honoring where I come from while pushing boundaries.
My business name, Curry Spice Art, reflects that pride in my culture. For so long, I felt like I had to downplay my heritage to fit in, but this name is my way of reclaiming that narrative. It’s bold, unapologetic, and celebrates everything that makes me unique.
At the heart of my work is a desire to empower. As someone who grew up watching my mother and the women around me carry their families on their shoulders, I know the strength and beauty of sisterhood. My art is my way of lifting up women, especially those from marginalized communities who deserve to see themselves reflected in powerful and inspiring ways. Through my pieces, I want to tell their stories, highlight their resilience, and create a sense of belonging.
Art has become more than a passion—it’s my way of building connections and creating a community where everyone feels seen and celebrated. Through Curry Spice Art, I hope to empower women, foster a sisterhood, and remind us all that our roots and our stories are worth honoring.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The most rewarding part of being an artist is the magic of turning imagination into something tangible. There’s nothing quite like having an idea—just a spark in your mind—and watching it transform into something real, something you can see and touch. The process of creation, from the first sketch to the final detail, feels like a conversation between myself and the piece. It’s an incredible feeling to step back, look at what I’ve created, and know it started as just a thought in my head.
But beyond creating for myself, the best joy comes from working with clients and bringing their vision to life. When someone trusts me to translate their ideas into art, it’s an honor I don’t take lightly. I love diving into their story, understanding their emotions, and weaving it all together in a way that not only matches their vision but often surpasses their expectations.
The moment a client sees the finished piece for the first time is pure magic. Watching their face light up, seeing the emotion in their eyes—it’s a feeling that never gets old. Whether it’s a henna design that makes someone feel beautiful or a larger artwork that carries personal meaning, the ability to create something that resonates deeply with another person is priceless.
For me, the most rewarding part isn’t just about making something visually beautiful; it’s about making a connection. It’s about creating pieces that inspire, empower, and bring joy—not just to me, but to the people who see them. Knowing my art can have that kind of impact is what keeps me motivated and fulfilled as an artist.
What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?
Society has a huge role to play in helping artists thrive. Art isn’t just decoration—it’s culture, identity, and storytelling all rolled into one. Supporting artists means recognizing their value and giving them the tools and opportunities to continue creating. One of the most straightforward ways to do this is by investing in their work. When you buy from an artist, you’re not just purchasing an object—you’re supporting their dream, their craft, and their ability to keep doing what they love.
That said, not everyone has the budget to shop for art, and that’s completely okay. Support comes in so many forms, and sometimes the smallest actions make the biggest difference. Sharing an artist’s work on social media, for instance, is incredibly powerful. A simple repost, like, or comment can expose their work to new audiences, spark interest, and even lead to sales. Word of mouth is one of the most valuable tools for an artist. When someone says, “You’ve got to check out this amazing artist I found,” it not only builds credibility but creates connections that might not have happened otherwise.
Artists thrive on community, and when people advocate for them—whether through referrals, shoutouts, or just spreading their name—it creates a ripple effect. It’s not just about financial support; it’s about helping an artist’s voice reach further. Encouragement and visibility can be just as important as a sale.
Ultimately, supporting artists means creating a culture where creativity is valued and celebrated. Whether it’s through purchasing, sharing, attending exhibitions, or just showing up to support their work, every bit counts. When society uplifts its artists, it uplifts its soul.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.curryspice.art
- Instagram: @CurrySpiceArt
- Facebook: Curry Spice Art
