Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarah Ali.
Hi Sarah, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My entry into the world of art is one which might have actually saved me. As the only child of prominent physicians, I was always taught the importance of hard work. After having received my MBA from Rollins I was ready to tackle the corporate world. Marriage and kids however soon took precedence. After the birth of my third child, my health began to rapidly deteriorate. The medical community was completely mystified what had caused me to become almost non-functional. After grueling tests, numerous consultations, I finally got the news…I had been diagnosed with LUPUS.
Feeling completely defeated, normally a very outgoing individual, I became very reclusive and depressed. How was my family going to deal with all of this? It was during this time that I was introduced to paint as a form of therapy. Extremely resistant to the idea, I started to paint. I began to find an outlet from my pain by crafting nature’s texture into my feelings. This breathed new life into me. I learned to turn negative experiences into positive results. By using organic materials, such as twigs, grass, and leaves to create palettes of color, each piece of work reflects my state of mind at that moment. The confidence i found allowed me to see the good side in everything, and my hope is that anyone who views my art will vividly and emotionally connect with their own feelings.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
My artistic journey has not been an easy one. The art market is very volatile and one has to be able to adjust to the market. Unfortunately, art is not a necessity for everyone so it becomes challenging at times.
Another personal struggle I endured was three years ago I went through another unforeseen event when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. This was a very difficult period. However, I once again turned to painting. I even volunteered painting classes with cancer patients which proved to be a mutually beneficial experience.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am an artist that specializes in abstract art. My process is very organic. I paint on cork which is imported from Spain. I use organic pigment paints as well as powder paints. I paint outside and often incorporate nature and its elements in my art. Many times you will see actual leaves or bark of a tree in my painting – very rustic and organic.
I do not give titles to my paintings. Because my work is abstract, what I see may not be what the client sees. I want my viewers to have a connection with the art.
How do you define success?
I believe success is the achievement of something that you have been trying to do. Many times people associate success with their bank balance and high position in their career. While these are definitely important facets of life, they do not necessarily guarantee happiness. In my mind, a big part of personal success is to be content and fulfilled with one’s situation. I may not be Picasso (yet) but I am content in what I have achieved thus far in my artistic journey.
Contact Info:
- Email: sarahalifineart@gmail.com
- Website: www.sarah-ali.com
