Hueyda El Saied
the Human-Tree Painter
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Hueyda, you started your artistic career as a classical dancer. You have excelled becoming a model, singer, and TV presenter. You are also a published writer. Now you are focused in your paintings. What is the source of all this energy?
Life itself is energy. We are all born full of energy. I was so energetic as a kid. I try to safeguard that little kid still residing inside me. I try to protect her and give her voice whenever I can. Every time I paint I let that little kid take charge. I simply guide her, but she is in control. It’s her who paints and tells the story. She used to love to dance. She still sings and writes. Honestly, I just follow. Sometimes it’s hard to rein her in, but I try to do my best. |
photo: courtesy of the artist |
When did you realize your love of painting?
I started painting in 1996. I enjoyed it very much from the beginning. But at the time I was very busy with my full time job as a dancer. Then I moved to Paris where my professional life was even busier, hectic. So unfortunately I had to give up painting for a while. But it was a passion that stayed dormant inside me for a long time. I used to crave it. I would paint here and there when time allowed. Finally, a few years ago, I decided to settle down and dedicate most of time to painting. It really fulfills me.
What inspires you for your paintings?
I get my inspiration from life itself. I also travel a lot which helps me tremendously as I get to meet people from different backgrounds. I hear their stories. Some are sad and some are happy. But they inspire me all the same. In many occasions I simply capture moments from my own life and so on.
What are the main themes on your canvas?
I love the Human-Tree concept. Often I transform the human body into a moving tree that does not have any roots, which is a little bit like me. I move a lot thus I feel like I don’t have roots anywhere. But I feel good everywhere. My trees can dance, walk, sing and pray, depending on my mood.
I started painting in 1996. I enjoyed it very much from the beginning. But at the time I was very busy with my full time job as a dancer. Then I moved to Paris where my professional life was even busier, hectic. So unfortunately I had to give up painting for a while. But it was a passion that stayed dormant inside me for a long time. I used to crave it. I would paint here and there when time allowed. Finally, a few years ago, I decided to settle down and dedicate most of time to painting. It really fulfills me.
What inspires you for your paintings?
I get my inspiration from life itself. I also travel a lot which helps me tremendously as I get to meet people from different backgrounds. I hear their stories. Some are sad and some are happy. But they inspire me all the same. In many occasions I simply capture moments from my own life and so on.
What are the main themes on your canvas?
I love the Human-Tree concept. Often I transform the human body into a moving tree that does not have any roots, which is a little bit like me. I move a lot thus I feel like I don’t have roots anywhere. But I feel good everywhere. My trees can dance, walk, sing and pray, depending on my mood.
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What's a hidden dream in your mental drawers?
World peace and a safer life for mistreated women and kids.
Do you follow your instincts and imagination to run free exploring your many talents or do you have an agenda?
I wish I had an agenda but I don’t. I take life as seriously as the kid I once was. I’m a freedom lover. I don’t like to plan ahead. Once, I read a quote: “Life has more imagination that we have.” To that I would add that life is treating me quite well with her imagination.
What about your role as a human rights activist and lawyer? What is the impact of that role in your art making process?
I studied law and became a human rights jurist because I wanted to help people in need. I have also testified at IOM, (a United Nation’s organization) about human trafficking. This is an issue I am very passionate about. On June 1st, I organized a charity auction of paintings. This took place in Tirana and it was made possible in collaboration with CRCA and UNICEF-Albania. All proceeds benefited Albanian children in need. This is the first auction of its kind in my country and hopefully it won’t be the last.
What can you say about prejudice in the art world?
Does such discrimination really exist?! Art is the most efficient way to give and receive love. I feel lucky to be able to express my love through my paintings. I feel loved every time my paintings are appreciated.
When and where will be your next exhibition?
There is an ongoing exhibition of my works in my hometown of Tirana - Albania. One would think that first exhibitions take place in your home turf. But my first few exhibitions have opened in Luxembourg. This one will be my sixth exhibition, and I am very happy that Albania is the location this time.
It’s fair to say that Hueyda El Saied, a stunning, intelligent artist who also happens to be an active human right activist & Jurist, is surely one of the best reasons to visit Tirana, Albania. An exhibition of her paintings is currently on view.
For more info visit Hueyda El Saied’s website: www.hueyda-el-saied.com
For more info visit Hueyda El Saied’s website: www.hueyda-el-saied.com