Emirates Man – The Winter Escape Issue – Download Now
UAE-based artist, Ahmed Emad explores the revolutionary world of art through NFTs.
What do your first 30 mins of the day look like, your morning routine?
Early birds catch the worm. With the early rise of the sun, my mornings begin in quietness. I wake up around 5:30 am, which allows me to plan my day with a clear head. I usually take a cold shower to boost my alertness and maintain focus throughout the day. Stretching exercises are also a part of my daily routine, as they help to reduce any muscular tension throughout the day. Then, of course, I move on to a cup of coffee, while I select an outfit that’s best suited for my daily activities. Finally, I dress up and set off to tend to all the tasks planned ahead.
Your artworks focus on existential themes. Was this the focus from the outset?
As a conceptual artist, tackling bigger-than-us concepts has always been something that drives me. My focus is geared towards providing a space where meaning in the world we live in is discussed. I find creating an experimental space for people to discuss themes I tackle a very rewarding experience. Existential themes are quite evident in the works I produce because I channel a lot of my ponderings through them. Contemplation for an artist is what it’s like to to ‘test the waters’ for a swimmer. There is so much to delve into and create when each of us carries an abundance of creative energy. With that, existential themes flow easily into my work, evoking emotions through multiple perspectives using the fusion of color and texture.
What inspires you to create and when did you realize this was an outlet you wanted to explore?
A variety of things inspire me, especially people’s stories or experiences which have built a large library for my creative self. I’ve been continuing contemporary art for more than 10 years now because the process allows me to express my thoughts and have the freedom to do so. During my years of studying Civil Engineering, my exposure to all types of materials has made me more curious about how to transform a utility item into something that expresses meaning. I find this especially stimulating when I experiment with new mediums, such as incorporating cement, gravel, or fabrics into my work. My inspirations have been grounded very much in the human collective of finding meaning in a sometimes rushed, fast-paced world.
Why did you decide to use NFTs (Non-Fungible-Tokens)?
I wanted something new to experience. Despite, the initial reception of NFTs, I wanted to showcase how art can evolve into many forms. NFTs proved that we can experience art with changing forms, and adapt to new ways of artistic expression.
With NFTs gaining popularity in the art world, how have you been a part of this growing momentum and how easy was it to enter the market?
An NFT is a collectible digital asset, which holds value as a form of cryptocurrency and as a form of art or culture. Much like art is seen as a value-holding investment, now so are NFTs. In recent times, NFTs allow art through a dynamic blend of audio/visual stimulation. They embrace a lot of core elements of how I like to create art. It is ever-changing and digital. I was very honoured to be a part of the first NFT | IRL exhibition in the region with Firetti Contemporary Gallery. I would like to thank Founder Mara Firetti, Director & Curator Celine Azem and Marketing Director Kayna Lang from the Firetti team as well as my brother who is Art Manager brother, all of whom made this possible. It was a great opportunity for something new and exciting.
The UAE supports those who decide to take a new turn in life. How has being based in the region allow you to re-invent or change the direction of your life or career?
The UAE has encouraged me to pursue my artistic endeavours with great support. It has opened a lot of doors for me and I can truly say I’m very lucky to be a Dubai-based artist.
The UAE encourages and cultivates an environment in which to thrive in business – how have you experienced this?
I am happy to see art and culture growing greatly within the UAE. Many opportunities are being granted to new and accomplished artists alike. I would not have achieved such a successful start in my chosen industry without the support of my beloved country and I count myself as very fortunate I’ve been very fortunate to be a part of an environment that encourages people to thrive.
So much has been achieved in the UAE in 50 years, do you feel this pace and scale of growth is reflected in the businesses based here?
Absolutely. A lot of businesses have developed over the past few monumental years. A lot of that success comes from the visions of our leaders. I can say that the UAE is one of the strongest countries for growth in business.
What have been the challenges to building or scaling a business in the region and how did you overcome them?
This region is well-suited for those who can overcome challenges, as the support here is immense. Many who’ve overcome certain challenges, thought of it as a positive experience when they’ve scaled their businesses to achieve a certain trajectory. This is what’s great about this country, we strive for things and feel supported.
This year we celebrate the UAE’s 50th Anniversary – what makes this region unique to you?
It’s home.
Emirates Man – The Winter Escape Issue – Download Now
– For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Instagram
Images: Supplied
