SHARJAH – In this world, finding a true passion and following it with determination is rare.
At Zayed University, amidst the College of Arts and Creative Enterprises, a young student by the name of Mariam Al Ali shines as a senior student majoring in graphic design, breaking barriers and paving the way for aspiring artists to pursue their dreams.
Despite being early in her career, Al Ali, 20, has already made an impact on art by participating in the Focal Point exhibition with her project “Souq Alwaha Publication” at Souq Alwaha in Sharjah from Nov. 24 to 26, 2023. The project showcases Al Ali’s talent and unique approach to graphic design.
From a young age, Al Ali was drawn to the world of art, thanks to the guidance of her aunt.
“Her lessons sparked a fire within me, igniting my passion for art and guiding me towards a journey of imagination and creativity,” Al Ali says.
She describes art in three powerful words: cultural, unique, and authentic.
“I get inspired by everything and anything,” Al Ali says. “I enjoy observing my surroundings, which inspires me every day.”
Al Ali says she enjoys creating designs that tell a story and bring a deeper meaning to her work. Sometimes she follows a brief for a project, but she finds that her art becomes more meaningful and powerful when it has a backstory behind it. She admires local artists such as Lina Amer and the design collective Eyen Design.
One of Al Ali’s favorite projects, “A Day in Souq Alwaha,” showcases her talent in creating a guidebook that reflects the identity of Souq Alwaha. Displayed at the Focal Point exhibition, this guidebook not only serves its practical purpose but also evokes the feeling of exploring a vibrant market.
Despite her busy schedule filled with projects and deadlines, Al Ali aspires to encourage more Emiratis who love art to join her major and explore their creative potential. Currently working on her senior project titled “رصيف” or “Rassef,” Al Ali explores the concept of using street signs as symbols of historical places, adding depth and significance to urban spaces. Through research and thoughtful design, she aims to transform traditional signage into artistic representations of Sharjah’s rich heritage and culture.
“Rassef is more than just a project – it’s a celebration of the intersection between art, history, and urban design, inviting viewers to see street signs in a new light,” she says.
Antoine Abi Aad holds a doctoral degree in design and teaches Al Ali at Zayed University. “Mariam is a hard worker who meticulously incorporates feedback into her projects,” he says. “By diligently following recommendations and investing considerable effort, she consistently refines her work.”
He continues by describing her work in three words as “mature, skillfully crafted, and exemplary.”
As she started preparing for her internship for the next chapter of her artistic career, Al Ali stands as an inspiration for aspiring artists everywhere. Her journey from passion to purpose serves as a reminder that with dedication and creativity, the possibilities in the world of art are endless.
About the author
Aisha Salim Alkirbi is a 21-year-old senior student in the College of Communication and Media Sciences at Zayed University in Dubai. She studies Integrated Strategic Communication
This story was edited by Yulia Medvedeva.
