“Art is my colorful bubble, it's where I travel to another world, disconnect, and just sink into imagination,” said the passionate artist from Jordan.
After living in Doha for only over a year, Joud Rushidat said she’s truly impressed by how Qatar is keeping the art scene alive through the many galleries, cultural events, and exhibitions that support, nurture, and motivate artists to enhance their craft.
When asked about her goal? Joud’s answer is simple yet meaningful: to spread happiness and positive vibes through hand-painted pieces and murals! Let’s check out her art and get to know her a little more in this short interview!
Joud: I'm a Jordanian artist who's currently based in Qatar. It's my second year here, working as a full-time art educator and artist.
Joud: Since I was young, I used to scribble everywhere my hands landed on! I took a couple of drawing courses and studied Interior Design as a major, which contributed a lot to the development of my skills, and my eye to pay attention to detail and spaces.
Joud: I have been painting for so many years, however, I got more committed and decided to pursue my passion officially 5 years ago, and that's when I started Scribble by Joud. What inspires me? Plain white walls, canvases, and items can always build a visual image in my head, triggering me to paint and fill them up with scribbles and joyful colors.
Joud: I juggled so many professions and interests, until I finally found myself in the education field, specifically in teaching arts, leading me to discover and unleash my identity as an artist.
As a start, it wasn't easy, especially when you are trying to deliver a certain message or deliver a concept to some audiences who don't believe and embrace your work! But after a while, things got smoother, and I started building my identity as an artist, believing more in myself and where I want to reach, which in return received acceptance and appreciation.
I still have lots to deliver, learn, and teach, as I believe we can never stop evolving.
Joud: I have participated in the Qatar International Art Festival in October 2021 as well as the Katara International Arabian Horse Festival in February 2022, both of which were held at Katara Cultural Village.
Both experiences were of great benefit, as I was able to make connections with amazing artists from around the world, as well as be part of such big events. And considering that I'm new to the country and culture, the acceptance and motivation I have received were truly inspiring and gave me a huge push to move forward and contribute more within the art community in Qatar.
Joud: The attention Qatar gives to art is impressive and encouraging, there's great potential for any emerging artist to grow, so many opportunities to take, all within a diverse community of local and international artists, which bridges the gap allowing them to share their art and experiences.
Joud: I believe one should be proud of every artwork they make, as each one reflects part of the development and journey, however, I have to give credit to "Battoola", the painting I did for Qatar International Art Festival.
It was the first time I had exhibited my work, and this painting reflected my admiration for Qatari women and their strength in reaching high levels and contributing to the culture massively (symbolized by the Battoola and traditional Abaya). It also portrays an image of Arab women who are aiming to be powerful and successful in their lives, while maintaining and addressing their culture as part of their success.
Joud: Being consistent, learning from mistakes, and reflecting on my strengths and challenges, while looking for areas of improvement.
Joud: Stay true to yourselves and believe in what you are doing even if no one else does.
Joud: A warm thank you for the great hospitality, generosity, and welcoming vibes I have received as a resident, and for providing me with a safe place that I can call my second home!
Cover image credit: ILQ staff
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