Soraya Darwish

Co Founder at "Onqoud" and "Saudi Art Guide"

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
ARTIST STATEMENT:

As a child, I always enjoyed art. The only major that was closest to what I wanted was graphic design. Towards the end of my studies, I became more drawn to art and experimentation. College was challenging and my art was more to me than a form of expression; it became an escape from reality. As I drifted away from graphic design, I experimented with digital photography and traditional media. What I enjoy most about experimentation is that I start off not knowing where I’m going with the piece, but my feelings always lead the way. It’s a wonderful feeling to just let go.

I find it intriguing how reality itself mostly inspires me, yet my work is far from realistic. I see things most people don’t see, and therefore I share my perception of the beautiful world we live in. The most random things, like an ant, can inspire me. What’s beautiful about the small things in life is their simplicity. Yet when you look closer, every single thing on this planet has its role, which, when you think about it, is too vast for our minds to comprehend.

My major has introduced me to social design, which is what I enjoyed the most in my college days and to this day. I often do conceptual pieces that mostly address social and cultural issues.

You can say I’m a hippie that thinks it’s their business to change the world!

My current objective as an artist is to empower emerging artists & art appreciators in Saudi Arabia, a country that has little art and cultural activity.

Work Experience

Saudi Art Guide

Co Founder

The unprecedented first of its kind online guide to the Saudi art scene, on website, iPhone and iPad!
February 2013 - Present Saudi Arabia

Onqoud

Co Founder & Director

A hub for creatives in Saudi Arabia providing an online and offline collaborative platform to LEARN, CREATE, SHARE!
November 2012 - Present Saudi Arabia

Cobone

Social Media Executive

November 2011 - January 2013 Saudi Arabia

Young Designers

Freelance Graphic Designer

A business founded by Hashem Daghestani.
Young Designers, "The Home of Thobe Designers."

I worked on the stationary, shopping bag, designer bios, and shop wallpaper design and illustrations.
May 2011 - July 2011 Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Misk Holding For Advertising And Publicity

Junior Graphic Designer

Misk is a local agency that was founded in 1975. It was reactivated in June 2010.

In addition to graphic design, I've done copywriting, and taken other responsibilities such as Brand Management, Project Management, and Client Servicing.
July 2010 - October 2010 Jedddah, Saudi Arabia

Languages

English (Fluent),
French (Conversational),
Arabic (Native),

Skills

Illustration, Copywriting, Graphic Design, Photography,