How did your artistic journey start, Abdul?
I always loved Art, from an early age I used to be in awe of how Cartoons are created. I took to Pen and Pencil very well, and from the age of 6 I started to Draw Cartoon Characters.

There was a program on STV called Glen Michael’s Cavalcade and every Birthday I used to draw a Birthday Card with my family on it and Cartoons and send it to Glen. He used to read it out aloud when it was my Birthday, he would show my card on TV. I loved the excitement of that.

I think that’s where I got a passion for Art and that continued through my School years. I decided I wanted to be a Graphic Designer. I pursued my Career as an Artist and joined Art college, and Graduated in 2002. I Loved my time at the Art College, I learned a lot about my skills and enhanced my creative abilities.

How did you arrive at the theme of your work?
I love creating unusual abstract pieces. I made a collection of Landscapes and Abstracts and fused them with old Masters Paintings, and came up with something quite original.

Can you walk us through your creative process?
I go through images that inspire me on the internet and magazines. Then I make a collage of them and pick out the Art direction of my pieces. Each piece is individual.

How has your practice changed over time?
From When I picked up a Pencil til now I think what mostly has changed is my Perception and use of Colour. I have more of an Eye For Detail and understanding Shading Light and Shadow.

How do you overcome creative blocks?
I think creativity is a gift from God. I take inspiration from Life, Media, and from things that surround me. I have never really had a creative block I am always full of positive energy and quite optimistic.

Who influences you? Which other artists’ work do you love? 
I Love a lot of artists. To name a few: Kandinsky, Dali, Davinci and more Modern Artists. I like the work of Ken Kurojiro.

What advice would you give to artists who are just starting out?
Follow your Heart. Paint, Draw, Sketch and Doodle. Pick up a pencil and don’t have fear just let your Creativity flow. You will soon figure out what works for you, and most of all Enjoy it.

Is there anything else you would like people to know about your work or your experiences as an artist?
Be kind to people on the way up. You never know when you might need them. You’re an artist but they have set of skills which you may require in the future. Be yourself and most of all love what you do.

See Abdul’s work at our Summer Show, running at Six Foot Gallery until 6th July 2023.