Asaad Al-Khalili, a passionate Omani artist, has been captivated by the surreal and the extraordinary since childhood. Drawn to scenes that distort reality, he has developed a unique artistic voice that resonates with the surrealism movement originating in the 20th century.
“Most of my artworks, even today, carry a surrealistic tint,” he explains. “Surrealism aims to unleash the creative potential of the unconscious mind.”
Al-Khalili finds himself instinctively drawn to the nuances of human expression, from the details in eyes and postures to the subtleties of facial features. “I strive to capture intricate details on paper—not just appearances or emotions, but the very textures of skin and the smallest elements detectable.”
In his compelling work titled "Unconscious Effect," Al-Khalili explores the subtle influences people have on one another, often without realising it. “Individuals tend to adopt similar behaviours and attitudes to those they live with, reflecting their emotional and physical interactions.”
In another striking piece, "Nostalgic Reflection," Al-Khalili depicts a dimly lit room where an elderly man gazes out at a world that feels increasingly distant. “The old man finds himself ensnared in the labyrinth of his mind, where memories cycle through an eternal loop,” he reflects.
His artwork "Burden of Time" tackles the weight of life's responsibilities. “This piece reflects the challenges of aging and the resilience required to navigate the complexities of life,” he adds.
Al-Khalili also enjoys creating small, surrealistic bookmarks that incorporate elements like scaling, transformation, and juxtaposition. He acknowledges the challenges faced by artists in a digital age, particularly with advances in artificial intelligence that can generate complete artworks with ease.
“AI technology poses a significant challenge for many artists. However, to create memorable and personal artworks, it’s essential for artists to cultivate their unique styles and continuously refine their skills,” he emphasises.
Looking ahead, Al-Khalili is determined to push his creative boundaries and master new techniques. “I aspire to build a legacy that leaves a lasting intellectual and emotional impact on others.”
Throughout his journey, Al-Khalili has achieved notable successes. “I’ve garnered several local awards and currently offer drawing lessons in perspective and charcoal techniques. My major project involves melding my experiences with 3D design technology to develop 3D-printed artworks alongside my traditional pieces,” he shares.
For many emerging artists, transforming passion into a viable income source is a common struggle. Al-Khalili advises that building a strong social media presence to showcase artwork, selling online, and offering drawing classes can help. “Artists can also sell prints of their work or provide custom services through various platforms,” he suggests.
Describing his relationship with art, Al-Khalili notes, “Drawing often leads to a state of flow where time slips away, and I become fully immersed in my work. Experimenting with new techniques or colours keeps the process invigorating and inspirational.”
He believes that successful artistic expression hinges on a combination of skills, tools, and timing. “Daily practice and learning about perspective, colour theory, as well as lighting and shading techniques, are crucial for advancing as an artist,” he explains.
Visual inspiration is vital for artistic development, and Al-Khalili cites surrealist icon Salvador Dali and contemporary Iranian artist Raoof Haghighi as significant influences. “Their work blurs the lines between reality and fantasy, creating a dreamlike atmosphere.”
Al-Khalili maintains a cherished routine when pursuing his art. “A comfortable workspace with a drawing board and appropriate tools is essential. Surrounding myself with plants or objects that inspire calmness enriches my creative process. Most of my free time involves drawing, sketching, and preparing thumbnails before embarking on final projects.”
He concludes passionately, “Art goes beyond mere visual appeal; it enhances well-being. Living in spaces filled with art and creativity elevates people’s psychological states. For those starting their artistic journey, I encourage finding a supportive community of like-minded individuals.”
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