Jaberology : Delving into the Beauty of Islamic Art
Jaber Al Haddad is an Emirati artist based in Dubai. He works in the IT field, and although he has a technical background, he is drawn to tradition and art. More specifically, Islamic Art. His works are displayed under the moniker "Jaberology". Through them, his passion for history, shapes, symmetry, and geometry is evident. His creativity and efforts to spread awareness about this art form are highly commendable. We at Litebox took the chance to discuss with Jaber and learn more about him and his creative mind.
How did your journey to Islamic Art begin?
It started by searching for the right type of art which "spoke to me". I always found abstract art more interesting. I began by exploring different kinds of art, mainly abstract, and saw that I was very attracted to geometric shapes, and then I found Islamic geometry. This artform was a perfect match for me.
How deeply do you believe geometry influences the universe? Is there symmetry in the thread of life?
Indeed. The whole universe is based on geometry. We can find this in the most complicated things in life like astronomy, and in the simplest shapes like the weaves of flowers. Actually, there is a concept of sacred geometry in other cultures that shows the beauty of geometry in the universe.
Where do you find inspiration from and who are the artists and personalities who inspire you?
I will not talk about Islamic art only, but for me, as a person, I always get inspiration from history and historical locations. For example, when I travel, I love walking in the streets and take pictures of interesting shapes, street and shop signs, especially the old and historical places. I believe interesting shapes are all around us, we just need to slow down and enjoy watching everything around us.
What do shapes mean to you? How do you use them as a means of expression? Do you consider them as an obsession?
I guess from my previous answers you can say I am obsessed with shapes. I think my whole life, I was building a database of shapes in my head. Shapes could mean many things based on how you see them as single shapes, and when you put them in the context of other shapes also. The way you think and your awareness of beauty could play a significant role in how you see shapes.
What happens to your mind when you are in the creative mode?
First thing I find myself focused on what I want to do, but at the same time, I will be in brainstorming mode also. The second thing I don't feel the time, I could spend long hours just exploring an idea.
Although, Islamic art is deep and vast and equally beautiful, meaningful and mysterious, Which is your favorite Islamic Art style?
Islamic geometry is what resonates with me the most.
What made you choose IT as a career path in the beginning even though you are a born artist?
I was attracted to the intriguing world of IT. Also, it allows your brain to be consistently working and creative. It helped me to be a very analytical person, which is very important, in my opinion, for Islamic geometry.
How did you turn your passion into a career? A few words about career shift and its challenges.
Art is still a hobby. It could be a career one day, for the time being, it is a hobby, I can be considered as a part-time artist.
What is your advice for youngsters who are passionate about art?
Follow your dream, and don't listen to anyone who wants to bring you down. Be ready to compromise many things in order to achieve your goals. Take it seriously and have fun.
What do you feel about the future of Islamic Art? How will the traditions be kept alive? How will this art form evolve in the future?
First, we need to increase awareness about Islamic art and preserve it in order to develop it in the future. I feel Islamic art is still misunderstood, especially in the Islamic world. We need to have academic courses about Islamic art in various locations in the Islamic world.
What are your future plans? Any upcoming events in UAE or abroad?
I am planning to restart in 2021 with my Islamic geometry workshops. Also, I am starting a new project related to graphic design to document the history of the UAE in a different and creative way. (watch this space!)
How did you keep your creativity alive during the challenging year of the pandemic?
The year 2020 allowed me to spend more time exploring different ideas, and I see it as a positive year overall. I guess being positive and open-minded is the secret.
What are your hopes for 2021?
My biggest hope is safety for all.
Please say a few words about Litebox, and it's the purpose of creating more through creative collaboration.
We need these ideas that bring creative people together and provide a platform for sharing and collaborating. Creative people have the potential to change and save the world.
To see more of his inspiring works, visit his official website: http://jaberology.com/
or check out his Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/jaberology/
Keywords:
Abstract Art, art, creativity, design, Designer, Dubai, Dubai Art, Geometric Art, Geometric Mandala, Geometric Patterns, graphic design, Islamic Art, Islamic Geometry, Kufi Calligraphy