Emirati artist Najat Makki draws inspiration from the Gulf region and its architecture when creating her abstract paintings.
Emirati artist Najat Makki draws inspiration from the Gulf region and its architecture when creating her abstract paintings. “I have applied saffron and henna as they belong to the Emarati culture,” Makki says.
Born in Dubai in 1956, the artist discovered her interest in art at a young age. In 1977, Makki became the first Emirati woman to earn a government scholarship to study art overseas. She would go on to receive Bachelors and Masters degrees in Relief Sculptures and Metal from the College of Fine Arts in Cairo, then in 2001, she obtained a PhD in Philosophy of Art.
Her style is hands-on, as she uses her fingers to apply paint to canvas rather than use brushes – something that resonates from her academic sculptural background. “Daubing colors on canvas gives me an in-depth insight into the harmony of the artwork,” Makki says.
The artist has gained momentum over the years due to her accumulated experiences. “I have been able to realize many of my ambitions in the field of art. I have held solo exhibitions and art workshops,” Makki says. With all her global experience, Makki now focuses on helping young artists hone their talents.
