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Safiya Sideek: the one who wraps you in her warm artwork 

10 Jul 2022

By Shakira Shareef   Among other things, art is something that brings me peace. It wraps my mind and body like a warm blanket. No, I’m not exaggerating. I believe writing also falls under one such thing that soothes people’s minds. With art, it’s a whole other dynamic. Let’s find out more about art with Safiya Sideek today.    Q: When did you start drawing and why? A: I’ve always been drawing; it’s been a hobby of mine. My earliest memories are of drawing cartoon characters on paper for my friends, and I’d make cards or pencil holders out of them. The people around me have always encouraged me to keep drawing and it’s developed into a career path.    Q: I see oceans top all of your interests. Is there a reason why? A: I take inspiration from my surroundings. I started painting the trees and the skies but wanted to challenge myself a bit more. So I started painting the ocean. Once I moved to Sri Lanka, inspiration was just outside my home, so my interest in painting the ocean grew.  Q: In one other interview, you mentioned that there are young artists who don’t get enough recognition. Could you talk about that?  A: I follow a lot of talented local artists in Sri Lanka. The talent pool in Sri Lanka is quite big, but unfortunately, it’s hard to make a career out of it unless you’ve built a platform or physically put yourself out there. It’s also hard to find the recognition you deserve whilst getting lost in social media algorithms.    Q: Art, writing, and the creative field as a whole are seen as something that can never become a career option. But we see that you have done just that. How did you get there?  A: Sometimes, I think I got lucky, but then I remember that I had to also put myself out there, and I got rejected many times. I had failed pop-ups and projects that fell through. As a creative working on your own, one must consciously put themselves out there. It’s a lot of networking and building yourself in the community. Don’t be afraid to reach out and talk to people and ask questions.    Q: ‘Elements by Safiya’ is one of the sweetest things I’ve come across. I love the idea behind it – making art compact and portable. How is that venture going?  A: I have so many plans for ‘Elements’. The unfortunate thing is I am just one person with limited time. When I’m painting, it’s hard to work on ‘Elements’ as well. But hopefully, I’ll be introducing more products to ‘Elements’ and sharing the message of art on the go with more people.    Q: You conduct workshops. Tell our readers about it. A: I do conduct workshops once in a while and these are guided painting sessions. I had hoped to have monthly workshops, but unfortunately, due to the fuel crisis, it might take some time to start that again.   Q: What should one do if one wants to become an artist and sell their artwork?    A: Social media has its pros and cons. When it comes to business, it’s all about how you can use it to your advantage. We have several platforms now and it’s about how you use them yourself. Another important thing to remember is that people connect with the artwork and the artist. So, don’t be afraid to be yourself and tell your story.  Pop-ups, art talks, and market stalls are another way to meet like-minded people and showcase your work.    Q: What are your thoughts on opening your own art gallery? A: I’ve never really had this thought, but I am keen to have an exhibition for my artwork. Hopefully, that’s something I can secure in the near future.    PHOTOS © SAFIYA SIDEEK


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