At 37, Mohammed Al-Mohanna embodies a unique blend of artistic passion and professional expertise, bridging tradition and modernity. His creative journey began with a focus on set design at the Higher Institute for Dramatic Arts. Although theater didn’t become his primary pursuit, it laid a strong foundation for his artistic expression. Instead, Mohammed thrived in marketing communication, transitioning from the private sector to government roles. Today, his art merges whimsical imagination, cultural heritage and identity, making him a standout in Kuwait’s art scene.

Kuwait Times: How did your early fascination with certain themes or subjects evolve into the style you have today? Did you have any favorite artists or art styles as a child that inspired your current work?

Al-Mohanna: Growing up in a conservative household, I was captivated by cartoons, especially Disney animations — I was obsessed! My current style blends whimsical and eerie elements, inspired by the vast “cartoon treasury” in my mind and the Islamic designs I often see in random prayer corners or obscure brochures and books. I’ve always admired E H Shepard, the original illustrator of Winnie the Pooh, and the simplicity of mascots like Hello Kitty and Miffy. These influences led me to create my signature mascot — a humanoid cloud with a horn — that frequently appears in my work.

Mohammad Al-Mohanna

KT: How have Kuwaiti plays influenced your art? Are there particular plays or scenes that resonate with you?

Al-Mohanna: Kuwaiti plays haven’t directly shaped my art style, but they’ve definitely left an impression. I recently created a series of illustrations inspired by children’s plays from my childhood. A standout example is Al-Wawi W Banat Al-Shawi.

KT: How would you describe your artistic style and the themes you explore in your work? What emotions or messages do you aim to convey?

Al-Mohanna: I’d describe my style as whimsical with a touch of eeriness. It merges fantasy and pop culture, drawing heavily from Islamic aesthetics and the diverse cultures I’ve encountered. My goal is to highlight Kuwait’s unique subcultures, evoke emotions and celebrate identity through my illustrations.

KT: How has your religious upbringing influenced your artistic journey and the narratives in your work?

Al-Mohanna: Growing up in a deeply religious household shaped my worldview profoundly. Satellite TV and music videos were banned, so my childhood revolved around Quran readings, prayers, cartoons and VHS tapes of children’s plays my father bought. My mother’s dedication to religion left a vivid impression — she would lecture us and even build large 3D models of Heaven and Hell to help us visualize the afterlife. While these experiences might seem overwhelming, they became a powerful source of imagination and continue to influence the narratives in my art today.

KT: You’ve ventured into creating merchandise based on your art. What inspired you to take this step?

Al-Mohanna: I wanted my art to be more than something people frame or hang — I wanted it to become a meaningful part of their lives. This led me to expand into merchandise and develop my brand, We Collect Dreams. I aspire to grow it even further in the future.

KT: You’ve created illustrations about Palestine. Can you share the inspiration behind this work and its message?

Al-Mohanna: I usually avoid political art because I don’t want to create just for attention. However, during last year’s blackout in Palestine, I was deeply moved by the loss of children. I created an illustration of young martyrs holding hands — a visual expression of grief I couldn’t contain. More recently, I depicted freezing children in Gaza’s refugee camps, warmed by oversized cats. It reflects my helplessness in seeing the world fail to protect them.

KT: Japanese culture is known for its rich artistic traditions. Has it influenced your work, and what elements resonate with you most?

Al-Mohanna: Absolutely! I’m captivated by Japanese art’s diversity and imaginative depth, as well as its harmonious use of color. Artists like Yoshitomo Nara, with his focus on children and introspective themes, and Toshio Saeki, who blends traditional Shunga and Yokai styles with eerie brutality, inspire me deeply. While I’m not a big anime fan, I admire horror manga artist Junji Ito for his gripping storytelling.

KT: How do you see your art contributing to preserving and promoting Kuwaiti culture?

Al-Mohanna: Much of my recent work incorporates hidden Kuwaiti elements — monuments, signage, typography and even cats from familiar neighborhoods. Documenting these details gives my art a strong sense of identity and belonging. With Kuwaiti cultural identity diminishing in contemporary art, I believe it’s essential to celebrate and share our roots with the world.