As an aspiring Interdisciplinary Artist, I aim to integrate my work with my core values of justice, empathy, and the amplification of often overlooked narratives. Every story holds significance, and it is the responsibility of the artist and writer to convey this sentiment and instill it in the hearts of the audience.
Professional Identity Statement
From a young age, the importance of education and professional growth was ingrained in me by my parents, who, despite lacking a formal university education, had high expectations for my siblings and me. They encouraged us to surpass expectations and strive for excellence. This upbringing cultivated a mindset of seeking opportunities beyond the confines of the classroom at such a young age. During my high school years, this attitude propelled me into active engagement within the Arab and Muslim communities in Chicago, igniting my passion for activism and community organizing.
Upon entering college, familial expectations and my history of activism guided me towards initially pursuing a political science major at UIC. However, I soon realized that my passion for activism did not align with my passion for political science. I yearned for a more hands-on, creatively driven outlet, leading me to switch to an Interdisciplinary Education in the Arts Major with a minor in professional writing.
To me, art and professional writing are inherently interconnected, both relying on forms of expression and communication. Despite occasional societal skepticism towards artistic and writing careers, I firmly believe that artists and writers play a crucial role in educating the masses, encouraging reflection on societal, cultural, and political landscapes, and inspiring individuals to expand their imagination. If I can create change by pushing boundaries and fostering community, then I consider my endeavors successful.
My attraction to the creative fields stems from the ability to vividly express and explore my cultural heritage and roots. Delving into my rich Yemeni history, I discovered a lineage of artists who used art as a means of storytelling, preserving history, and uniting communities during trials and tribulations. I aspire to revive this lineage within my family’s generation in America and share it with a global audience.
As an artist, I possess qualities essential for success in this field: empathy, creativity, innovation, and critical thinking. Building on my background in activism, I remain actively engaged in the community through organizations like The Arab American Action Network and the Arab American Cultural Center at UIC. When writing, my focus lies primarily on political activism and storytelling within communities. With art, it is imperative to embrace creative processes and utilize art to convey diverse narratives to a wide audience. By connecting with local communities and engaging in meaningful actions, I strive to amplify voices that deserve to be heard.
Incorporating community into my work is a priority for me. Originating as an activist, I continue to hold a strong passion for driving the change my ancestors fought for. To effectively fulfill roles as an organizer, leader, and artist, I recognize the potential impact of my actions. It’s imperative to unite people in a manner that goes beyond linguistic, geographical, and ideological divides. I am committed to establishing a platform for expression, dialogue, and collaborative initiatives.
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