From a young age, Hassan Al-Ameer, a talented 2D artist, found inspiration in the intricate details of his surroundings. Spending countless hours sketching, his deep curiosity and innate drive to express his imagination shaped his journey as an artist. Today, Al-Ameer continues to captivate audiences with his hand-drawn creations, showcased at exhibitions in Kuwait.
Kuwait Times: When did you start being an artist, and what drew you to a highly detailed style?
Hassan Al-Ameer: I’ve been drawing for as long as I can remember, starting around the age of four. I was always fascinated by caricatures in newspapers. I’d stand in front of them for what felt like hours, wondering, “How can someone capture all these details with just an ink pen?” That curiosity fueled my passion to express my imagination on paper and strive to recreate intricate details. It’s such a fulfilling and enjoyable process.
I believe hand-drawn art has a unique power because of its imperfections. Those imperfect lines give the artwork its soul, creating a captivating and mesmerizing effect. It’s not about perfection; it’s about authenticity.
KT: What message are you trying to convey through your artwork?
Al-Ameer: My paintings tell silent stories with interconnected events. Each piece might seem mysterious on its own, but when viewed together, they reveal a larger narrative. I explore the concept of absolute truth — how it’s perceived by individuals and society, and how beliefs can fragment people into different factions. My work asks: Who is closest to the truth, and how do they navigate their journey toward it?
KT: What do your artworks symbolize?
Al-Ameer: My drawings symbolize the divided reality we live in. They reflect societies fragmented into fiercely loyal groups and individuals striving to break free from societal constraints, which aren’t always correct or just.
KT: Could you explain the significance of the characters in your pieces?
Al-Ameer: The characters in my drawings represent all of us. They are individuals searching for truth, and they will continue to appear in my work until they find what they’re seeking. Their journey mirrors our own — the endless quest for understanding and clarity. But is truth something we can easily grasp, or is it more elusive than we imagine?
KT: What techniques do you use?
Al-Ameer: I primarily use an ink ball pen on A2 paper.
KT: How long does it take to create your pieces?
Al-Ameer: It depends on the level of detail, but typically, a piece takes about a month to complete.
KT: Does your artwork reflect personal experiences?
Al-Ameer: Not directly. My art reflects my thoughts and beliefs, expressed through an imagined world filled with unique characters and symbols. It’s my way of exploring and communicating complex ideas.