Don’t Kitsch and Tell
Hana Sakran
Hana Sakran by Ahmed Radi
Egyptian painter and digital artist Hana Sakran’s art is the product of mixing artistic flair with a philosophical knowledge. Sakran’s art is inspired by spirituality, culture and is an example of what can happen when an artist is continuously curious. DIVAZ had an enlightening sit-down with Sakran to discuss some of her views on life and death, her unique process and how she runs her kitsch-en!
How have your cultural experiences shaped your identity?
When I was a kid, I was known as a dreamer and a loner. People used to call me crazy or weird. I started drawing because I always liked colors and I used to wear very colorful clothes. At first, I used to draw things that are realistic like flowers and nature. Then, as I grew up, I started to change and I became interested in more surreal imagery.
What were some of the biggest challenges that you faced along your journey thus far?
I think most of my challenges were in my head. Sometimes, I can get to a point where I think silence and not engaging is the best route forward, but that doesn’t go with the norm for my age and our times. It was a struggle for me to let go of this perfect image of how things should be, and actually keep drawing and keep learning. I think wisdom doesn’t come without knowledge.
Hana Sakran by Ahmed Radi
When you’re creating a new piece, is there a specific place or experience return mentally that provides you with clarity or inspiration?
I like to take a step back from the stage of silence; just be present, allow things to happen as they’re meant to happen and let the creativity flow freely. How I work, as an artist,is to just spend a full day or two on a painting until I finish it. It’s very impulsive.
What moment stands out as a deeply personal victory that made you feel proud of yourself and your work?
The biggest accomplishment for me was when I did a shoot with Zeinab El Tawil, inspired by the idea of Kitsch.
Talk to us about your studies; how have they influenced your creative approach?
I graduated with a degree in business in 2016 in England, and I’m currently doing a master's degree in philosophy. I was very happy when I was living abroad; I was 17 years old and I was self-discovering. Of course, when you go to a place that people don’t know you, you get to decide who you want to be and that inspired me.
Looking back at your journey, what advice would you give to your younger self?
Don’t change. Stay exactly the same, that’s the best part of you.
How would you describe your aesthetic in your own words?
I like to describe my style as Kitsch, which has many meanings, but I like to see Kitsch as an idea that humans can think they’re completely alone, but there are spiritual factors that bind us. Kitsch can have a bad side, but it can also be a great thing.
