Ghadah Alkandari is a Kuwaiti artist born in Delhi in 1969. In 1992, she received a BA in Mass Communications from the American University in Cairo. Renowned for her boundless creativity and unique artistic vision, Alkandari transforms ordinary subjects into extraordinary masterpieces. Her work, characterized by its bold colors, intricate details and profound themes, transcends traditional boundaries and invites viewers to explore new dimensions of artistic expression. Alkandari’s dedication to her craft and her ability to consistently surprise and delight make her a true visionary, and her work continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of art. Ghadah Alkandari was interviewed by Kuwait Times to discuss her art and passion.

Kuwait Times: Tell us about yourself.

Ghadah Alkandari: I’m an artist whose art is a huge part of her genetic makeup. I always say that my drawings and paintings are byproducts of my everyday living. Whereas my breathing, eating and sleeping spark no interest, it’s the artistic aspect of my daily routine that others enjoy. Hence the exhibitions.

KT: When did you start painting and how did you know you had this talent?

Alkandari: My mother tells me that I started drawing at two. I don’t remember ever not doing what I do. It was always an emotional coping mechanism for me, and I felt a huge sense of security from it.

KT: Who are your biggest artistic influences?

Alkandari: I was influenced from an early age by the books I read and the movies I watched: Archie, Asterix, Mad Magazine and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (the colors!). Then when I was older, in my later teens, I started noticing the Surrealists, Fauvists and Expressionists. I loved the mind of Salvador Dali and the works of Matisse, Modigliani and Kuwaiti artist Sami Mohammed.

KT: Where do you find inspiration?

Alkandari: My inspiration comes from curiosity and play. I like to try different things: What would happen if I froze this or burned that? I’m also inspired by forests, cemeteries and science. The list is long and disparate! But the one thing that people erroneously think I’m inspired by is other people’s art. That’s not how it works with me — it all comes from within.

KT: What kind of material and colors do you use in your art?

Alkandari: I use everything. My paintings are mainly in acrylic because I’m fast and have zero patience. But I can use anything, whatever is available.

KT: What is your favorite time of day to create?

Alkandari: At night - too many adult things to do during the day!

KT: You use a lot of Palestinian symbols in your art. Can you tell us more about it and your stand towards the Palestinian cause?

Alkandari: My father raised us to be thoughtful of Palestine and the cause, so it was always in the forefront. I’ve also been volunteering with the Palestinian Culture Center for nearly 30 years, and my children are part Palestinian. Artistically, I love Palestinian embroidery and frequently feature it in my Instagram posts. And since October 7, my posts have mostly been centered around Palestine. I believe that everyone has a role in keeping Palestine loved and alive. And my role is to keep talking about it.

KT: How do you define success as an artist?

Alkandari: It’s many different things: It’s people visiting your exhibitions; sharing their stories inspired by your works; it’s a mother sending you a private message letting you know you’ve inspired their daughter to draw; it’s making people laugh or cry. These are the most rewarding things to me. And of course it’s wonderful to be recognized in public! I never get tired of it, and never take it for granted.

KT: What is your favorite artwork and why?

Alkandari: I have many favorite artworks, so it’s hard to pinpoint. I can say that my favorite ones are the ones that inspire me to keep going. Sometimes I get in a rut, and seeing old paintings that randomly pop up galvanizes me to pick up a brush again.