Sara Abulkarim
Artist member since 2022
ProToronto, Ontario
Sara Abulkarim is a multidisciplinary artist based in Toronto. She studied at Cégep Marie-Victorin in Montreal and at OCAD University in Toronto, where she earned a diploma in interior design and a Bachelor of Fine Arts.
Sara Abulkarim is primarily inspired by her own experience and roots. She explores questions of identity and culture by documenting her life and every path she has taken. She seeks to capture intimate and intangible moments that are often forgotten but are always present in our memory. Influenced by her background in interior design, her work evokes emotion and nostalgia through the representation of interior spaces, public spaces, and the city both in a traditional and abstract approach.
Sara Abulkarim is an artist who works with various mediums. She uses a combination of photography, digital art, and traditional drawing to paint spaces and landscapes inspired by her daily adventures. Her work is often characterized by bright colors and textures on large-scale canvases.
Inside the Studio
Q+A
How long have you been creating art?
For as long as I can remember I have always loved drawing. I used to doodle in my agenda in school and all my pages were filled with drawings and calligraphy. Over time I realized it was my way of expressing myself since I was not good at vocalizing my feelings. Most my artworks were drawings, it's not until I turned 21 that I started using paint as my main medium.
Which piece of art you've created is your favourite, and why?
My favorite art piece would be "669"
What places do you hang out in Toronto?
My favorite place to hang out, especially during the summer, is Harbourfront; watching the boats, sketching and eating. I love walking on Queens Quay and see people go about their day—it is a lively and animated space. I also enjoy the various events, installations and the art spaces around it.
Favourite movie
One of my favorite movies is called ‘Spring summer fall winter and spring’ directed by Kim Ki-duk. If I remember correctly, I watched the movie when I was around 13 years old, and it changed my perspective on life. It showed the circle of life through the seasons and had many spiritual meanings displayed throughout the movie. It is beautifully filmed, quiet, and full of beautiful landscapes.
Favourite book
The alchimist by Paulo Coelho
What do you listen to when you work?
I would say it depends on what I'm working on. I love listening to an artist called ‘Nujabes’. I find his music to be relaxing and it also allows me to connect with myself. I’m also always on the lookout for new emerging music artists, as a way to support fellow creatives. Other times I prefer my 2000’s playlist or more upbeat music (old school, afrobeat, latin...).
Select Past Exhibitions
2023
2023
2022
2022
2022
2019
2018
2018
2018
2017
Accolades
2019
2019
Education
2021
2016
Social
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