With her quirky style and a combination of different art techniques Tia Radwan’s talent came through in her stunning painting of the iconic Mohamed Alabbar for eniGma’s Covers Reimagined event in June 2021. eniGma’s Farida Elserty had the chance to chat virtually with the young artist to learn more about her unique journey, her inspirations, and her views on art. Here is an excerpt of their chat.
Let’s start with a brief overview of yourself.
I am Tia Radwan, a passionate artist who is half-Greek and half-Egyptian. My culturally rich artistic background helped me in my artistic journey. I am still studying Visual Arts at The American University in Cairo. Happily, this has provided me with many opportunities, like internships and workshops, that broaden my artistic practices.
When did you first realise you wanted to be an artist?
Surprisingly, I did not intend to be an artist, by any means. It was just a hobby, and I did not want it to be my main thing. However, three years ago, I started thinking about entering the art scene somehow. Besides my painting, I also want to creatively direct and generate ideas for projects or create mood boards. Also, I am now interested in illustration art specifically.
What do you want people to feel when they see any of your paintings?
Honestly, I want them to feel kind of surprised. I hope that my artwork has a piece of mystery and enigma. When I become an establishe artist, my hope is that viewers would be motivated to research what lies behind every piece of my art.
What was the most challenging project that you have worked on?
The most challenging projects I have ever worked on were my first few projects at university. They were hard because I was trying to bring myself out of my shell. I struggled to break out of my stereotypical way of painting.
What makes you passionate about your work?
I would say that research before starting any project makes me more passionate about my work because it drives me to be more curious and to create more art pieces.
Where do you find your inspiration for new artwork?
I feel that any artist in our time will say that the internet has a big influence on anyone’s art- whether it is through social media or through resources found online. Recently, however, I have found my inspiration for new artwork by moving between various environments to analyse their differences.
Who has been the biggest mentor in your journey?
The biggest mentor in my journey is my grandmother, who pushed me to study art in the first place. Likewise, my professor at the university, Dr Shady El Noshokaty, to whom I owe everything good in my artistic journey.
What does art mean to you?
Art to me is confusing, like it should be. I am torn between two theories: on the one hand, art for art’s sake and on the other, the insistence that every artistic decision taken in an art piece should be well through out. Sometimes I feel that art should be ascetically appealing and sometimes I feel that art is conceptual. So, I still do not know what art means to me exactly.
What is your own favourite piece of art?
It may sound cliché, but I don’t have one favourite piece of art because I am a bit of a perfectionist. So, it is hard to choose one because I am never satisfied with one artwork. Nevertheless, if I had to choose one, it would be the “Stamp Passport” project because it has sentimental value for me and it reminds me of my grandpa who is not with us anymore.
What is your advice to aspiring artists?
My advice to aspiring artists, since I am one of them, is to never settle for your first idea and to bounce it to reach more creative ones. Additionally, do not work on the surface and always research because this will generate better ideas.
Can you tell us about your experience with the eniGma event?
Truthfully, eniGma’s Covers Reimagined event was perfect. I was amazed by how everything was perfect. Additionally, it was beneficial to meet all these artists and to share our artistic ideas.
What is your advice for your past self before beginning this career?
I am still at the beginning, but I would say to work with open calls and get featured in more exhibitions. Also, stop being hesitant and take more chances to create more art because practice makes perfect.
As an artist, how do you define success?
Personally speaking, I define success when I am satisfied with my work. It makes me proud when I look at my portfolio and am happy with every project in it.
How can your art affect societal issues?
In my opinion, art can affect societal issues, but not in Egypt. The reason is that censorship is a big deal here, so you cannot tackle certain issues in broad daylight.